Official: Chelsea extend Willy Caballero

Confirming reports from yesterday, Chelsea have officially announced that the club have picked up the one-year club-option on Wilfredo Caballero’s contract, extending the veteran goalkeeper through the end of next season.

The club-option was built into the deal that Caballero signed this time last year, and will now keep him at the club to June 2021, by which time he will be almost 40 years old!

“I am very happy to make this announcement. It is a privilege to be part of this Chelsea squad and the Chelsea family, at one of the most historic clubs in the Premier League.

“It is a difficult time for everyone right now so I feel blessed by this opportunity and truly appreciate it. I want to thank my team-mates for helping me to be my best and I want to thank the boss and the club for extending my contract. I’m sure they will continue to demand the maximum from me and I will compete with the same energy as always. I am very happy.”

-Willy Caballero; source: Chelsea FC

Next season will be Willy C’s fourth at the club already, which will make him one of the longest serving backup goalkeepers we’ve had in recent times. If he’s not careful, he’s going to start approaching Hilário territory, and then he’ll be stuck here forever as goalkeeper coach!

“Willy has proved himself to be a reliable member of our squad over the past three seasons so we are very pleased he has agreed to spend another year at Chelsea.

“He has at times had to be patient and wait for opportunities but has still been able to make a positive contribution to the team, which is very much appreciated by the club. We look forward to him resuming his influence among the group once football is safe to return.”

-Marina Granovskaia; source: Chelsea FC

In all seriousness, Caballero has been an excellent backup to both Thibaut Courtois and Kepa Arrizabalaga, and has shown this season that there is still solid life left in those aging bones. His 4 Premier League and 1 Champions League appearances are the most he’s made in those competitions since his last season at Manchester City in 2016-17!

“I trust in Willy, he trains brilliantly and is a great professional. He stepped into the team earlier this year and showed his quality, and his experience is invaluable in the dressing room. I’m delighted he will be with us next season.”

-Frank Lampard; source: Chelsea FC

Congrats, Willy! Let’s keep winning!