Rio Ferdinand calls out underperforming Chelsea star Eduardo Mendy to step up. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
Thomas Tuchel has weighed in with his insight on Edouard Mendy and how his development at Chelsea has been so far. The goalkeeper has been exceptional since moving to Stamford Bridge, becoming the undisputed starter between the posts despite Kepa Arrizabalaga getting back to his best.
Mendy was signed by the Blues from Stade Rennes in 2020 for a fee of £22million in transfer fees. But he has gone on to repay that amount in a quick matter of time following his sensational performances on goal. His displays even earned him FIFA’s award for the best goalkeeper in 2021. Their success in terms of trophies have been down to the strong presence he emits in between the posts.
Speaking in the pre-match presser ahead of tomorrow’s clash against Lille (h/t Football.London), Tuchel has expressed his delight with the Senegalese keeper and the progress he has made with the West London side. The boss has also lauded the shot-stoppers’ mental strength and ability to instil calmness in his defenders.
“Edouard is a top guy, a very strong character, very humble. I think everyone at Chelsea, including the supporters, wish him success because he give everything for the team playing a key role. I am so pleased with how he has developed. He is mentally strong, also on the pitch, he has been key to our top performances. He transmits that calmness to our defenders.”
The 30-year-old keeper has a mind-blowing 42 clean sheets to his name from a mere 77 appearances for his throughout his time with the West London club. What’s more, he has conceded just 49 goals during that period indicating his massive quality as a shot-shopper.
The African star has repaid the amount we paid to Rennes for his signature in a short period. We also enjoyed quite a lot of success in that time and would hope that this continues moving forward as well. It is even more ridiculous when one looks at his current wages, which amount to just £57,000-a-week. This salary package is very cheap for a squad player, not to mention a key player like Mendy.
Mendy’s transfer is one of the best businesses we have done in recent times, and let’s hope that he continues to perform at this level in the future as well. We face off against LOSC Lille in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 tie tomorrow. Despite having a two-goal lead from the first leg, Chelsea will need the 30-year-old to perform to his best to ensure that we qualify for the next stage.
Similarly, we still have the chance to win the FA Cup as well, and the Senegal international would be helpful in that competition. It’s not just the Blues defenders that he helps to calm things around as the sentiment is shared among the fanbase as well.
Jadon Sancho has hit the ground running in his season-long loan at Chelsea, with the Blues eyeing a permanent deal…
Chelsea appear to be rediscovering their form under Enzo Maresca, aiming for a top-four finish as they currently sit third…
In their bid to further bolster their defense, Chelsea are aiming to make a big move for the star right-back…
Christopher Nkunku is keen to leave Chelsea in January over lack of game time in the Premier League There has…
Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres is on the radar of Chelsea Chelsea are riding high in the Premier League, sitting…
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca eyeing defensive reinforcements in January Chelsea could well find themselves in the market to improve their…
