Technical director leaves Chelsea after six-year reign — report

Michael Emenalo’s ten-year stay at Stamford Bridge and six-year reign as technical director at Chelsea might be coming to an end today. According to reports from Telegraph’s Matt Law and Goal.com’s Nizaar Kinsella, the well-known and somewhat maligned Chelsea staff member has left the club today.

Law’s version of the scoop says Emenalo left Chelsea out of his volition, as he did not want to be involved in a clash of powers with manager Antonio Conte and director Marina Granovskaia. Meanwhile, Kinsella claims the former chief scout and assistant manager was dismissed by the club instead.

Emenalo had already offered the termination of his contract four years ago when José Mourinho was appointed as a Chelsea manager for the second time in his career. But the club refused his offer.

In any case, this is a major blow to the club as Emenalo was directly responsible for the acquisitions of several key players of Chelsea’s present such as Eden Hazard, César Azpilicueta and Thibaut Courtois. He was also involved in the process of finding prospects such as Kevin de Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, who now dominate the Premier League pitches for Manchester City and United, respectively.

Often seen as the Roman Abramovich’s right hand within Chelsea’s football department, the exact reasons for his departure — if confirmed — should remain a mystery. Nevertheless, he already has suitors lined up such as French club AS Monaco, which could be greatly aided by Emenalo’s knowledge in youth recruitment and development.

Some Chelsea fans will probably cheer on this bit, since Emenalo has been framed as the main culprit to the club’s transfer market failures and especially the sacking of José Mourinho. But we will remain thankful for his findings, and wish the best of luck on whichever journey he takes in the future.

Thanks, Emenalo!