Why Is Chelsea Star Eating Alone and Using Separate Toilets After Snubbing West Ham?

Axel Disasi, a member of Chelsea's so-called 'bomb squad', has recently revealed why he declined a loan move to West Ham United during the summer transfer window. The defender ultimately chose to pursue a return to his former club, AS Monaco, but that move did not materialise, leaving him in a challenging position at Chelsea.

Last updated: 12 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Disasi turned down West Ham and AFC Bournemouth to focus on a move to Monaco.
• He reportedly earns £80,000 per week and is under contract with Chelsea until 2029.
• The failed transfer left him isolated at Chelsea, with some reports suggesting he has been told to eat alone.
• Disasi spent last season on loan at Aston Villa, making his situation at Chelsea more complicated.
• He is currently linked with a potential move to Turkish club Besiktas.

Disasi's Decision-Making Process

Disasi’s decision to snub West Ham stemmed from emotional ties to Monaco, where he played from 2020 to 2023. In an interview with French outlet Le Media Carre, he expressed that the interest from Monaco brought back fond memories and a strong desire to return. He stated, “Monaco is home,” indicating the deep connection he feels towards the club.

The Transfer Situation

According to reports, West Ham were prepared to pay a £5 million loan fee and cover Disasi's wages, which amount to £80,000 per week. Chelsea were open to a deal, but Disasi's preference for Monaco ultimately led to the collapse of the potential move to West Ham. This reflects a broader trend in football where players often prioritise personal connections and past experiences over immediate career opportunities.

Impact of the Failed Transfers

The fallout from the failed transfer has left Disasi in a precarious situation at Chelsea. With the summer transfer window closing on September 1, he found himself without a new club and reportedly has not been included in any matchday squad this season. This isolation has drawn attention to the treatment of players who are not in the immediate plans of their clubs. Disasi, alongside other players like Raheem Sterling and David Datro Fofana, has faced the unusual situation of being instructed to eat alone and use separate facilities within the training complex.

Context: Chelsea's 'Bomb Squad'

The term 'bomb squad' refers to players who are effectively sidelined from first-team duties, often due to a lack of fit within the manager's plans or ongoing transfer negotiations. Chelsea has several players in this predicament, and the situation has sparked discussions about player welfare and the impact of being left out of the squad. Disasi's case is particularly poignant, as he has had a commendable career but now faces uncertainty.

Disasi’s Career at Chelsea

Disasi joined Chelsea from Monaco for a significant fee of £38.5 million in 2023, and he has since made 61 appearances for the club. However, the transition has not been as smooth as hoped, particularly following a loan stint at Aston Villa last season. His performance during that loan was commendable, but it was not enough to secure his place back in the Chelsea squad.

Current Status and Future Prospects

With the Turkish transfer window still open until September 12, Disasi is now being linked with a potential move to Besiktas. This could represent a new opportunity for him to reignite his career and regain his form in a competitive environment. The move might also offer him the chance to escape the isolating situation at Chelsea.

The Bigger Picture: Player Management and Transfer Strategies

Disasi's situation highlights broader issues within football regarding player management and transfer strategies. The dynamics of player transfers can often leave individuals feeling undervalued or sidelined, which raises questions about the ethical responsibilities of clubs towards their players. In recent years, many clubs have faced scrutiny for their treatment of players who are not part of their immediate plans.

Conclusion

Disasi's choice to remain at Chelsea, despite opportunities elsewhere, underscores the emotional complexities involved in professional football. As he looks towards a potential move to Besiktas, it will be interesting to see how his career unfolds and whether he can reclaim his form in a new environment. The treatment of players like Disasi also invites further examination of how clubs can improve their approaches to managing talent and ensuring that players feel valued, regardless of their current status within the team.

What does the future hold for Axel Disasi as he navigates his career path? The evolving landscape of football transfers continues to challenge players and clubs alike. #ChelseaFC #AxelDisasi #FootballTransfers

FAQs

Why did Axel Disasi refuse the move to West Ham?

Disasi turned down the move to West Ham because he had his heart set on returning to AS Monaco, where he had previously enjoyed a successful spell.

What was the loan fee for Disasi if he had moved to West Ham?

West Ham were reportedly willing to pay a £5 million loan fee for Disasi and cover his wages during the loan period.

How has Chelsea treated players like Disasi this season?

Disasi, along with other players, has reportedly been instructed to eat alone and use separate facilities at Chelsea, indicating he is not part of the first-team plans.

What is the current status of Disasi's contract with Chelsea?

Disasi is under contract with Chelsea until the summer of 2029, following his transfer from Monaco in 2023.

Could Disasi still move to another club this summer?

Yes, Disasi is currently linked with a move to Besiktas, as the Turkish transfer window remains open until September 12.