In theory, Chelsea are done with the idea of signing players just for the Loan Army — even before FIFA began tightening the rules — but Malang Sarr could prove otherwise. Then again, signing a once highly rated young defender on a free transfer is not exactly a risky situation. Chelsea’s official stance certainly leaves the door open for the 21-year-old to eventually make an impact.
But for now, any impact he makes will be for his loan team. Sarr finally found that team yesterday, joining Portuguese league champions FC Porto for the season. It’s certainly an ambitious move and should be a great opportunity for him to continue his development in a top European league while also taking part in Champions League football.
“I am very enthusiastic [about moving to FC Porto]. It was an opportunity I was looking for, and that is why I am thankful and happy to be here. I feel ready to begin helping the team achieve their objectives.”
FC Porto have a lot of history, as 29-time league champions and 2-time Champions League winners, including in 2004 under a certain José Mourinho just before he took the job at Chelsea.
Malang Sarr #FCPorto #NaçãoPorto #BemvindoSarr pic.twitter.com/IXyFHO3AKY
— FC Porto (@FCPorto) October 6, 2020
Sarr is well aware of this history, and he’s hoping to help add more chapters to it in the upcoming months.
“FC Porto are the best club in Portugal, they are a very big club with talented players and a history that, for me, is very important. I know that history, they are a team proud of its achievements and that is what I expect to find [here], a team that fights and with great mentality.
“I will give my best and help my teammates to better themselves as well. I will try being the best teammate I can be, and help the team win titles.”
-Malang Sarr; Source: FC Porto
Good luck, Malang Sarr! Like Chelsea, we will be watching closely.