Kalidou Koulibaly has sent a message to the Premier League, stating that he is the player that Chelsea have been waiting for.
This comes after Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen left the Blues on free transfers in the summer, leaving Thomas Tuchel’s side short in defence.
With Cesar Azpilicueta also heavily lined with a Chelsea departure, defensive reinforcements were a necessity in the summer transfer window.
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Signing for a fee of £33 million, Kouilibaly will be hoping to make his mark at Stamford Bridge.
The 31-year-old has been heavily linked with a switch to London in the past, most notably back in 2016, but a transfer never materialised.
Speaking exclusively to Chelsea’s official website following his arrival, Koulibaly has sent a message to the rest of the Premier League.
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When asked about the move from the Serie A to the Premier League, Koulibaly has admitted that he is keen to show his quality.
He said: “It’s a personal challenge.
"From Serie A to Premier League is a big step. Everybody wants me to play, show my quality in the Premier League.
“Speaking with some players that are already in the Premier League, they told me I had to come two or three years ago. Now is the right moment to come.”
The defender continued to reveal that he has the hunger to live up to his worldwide reputation, having been deemed as one of the best defenders in football during his time at Napoli.
“I have to show everybody I am the player they think,” he continued, before admitting that being at Chelsea would make his life easier.
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“To do it with Chelsea will be easier for me. A big team with big players will make my work easier. I don’t like to speak before but I want to give emotions to the supporters, to everybody that loves Chelsea.”
The Senegal international finalised by sending a message to Chelsea’s Premier League rivals, stating that he wants to show everyone that he is the player that Tuchel’s side have been looking for.
“I want to show them I am the player they have been waiting for. I want to win a lot of titles with Chelsea, starting as soon as possible,” he concluded.
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Chelsea will be hoping that the 31-year-old can help win trophies during his time at the club, after agreeing on a four-year deal.
The Blues will once again be looking to challenge on all fronts, finishing third in the Premier League behind Manchester City and Liverpool and reaching both domestic finals last season.
Topics: Chelsea, Kalidou Koulibaly, Premier League, Football
Nick Emms