England midfielder Conor Gallagher signed for Chelsea ‘s academy at the age of eight before eventually becoming captain of the Blues’ first team.

However , Gallagher ‘s 16-year spell at the club where he grew up is over after Chelsea decided to sell the 24-year-old midfielder to La Liga side Atletico Madrid. For around £33million amid opposition from fans who wanted the club to keep him.

Some Chelsea fans are unhappy with Gallagher’s departure. As they see him as a homegrown talent, an icon and the soul of the team. Whose unappreciated move widens the gap between the club and its fans and young players.

Since American billionaire Todd Boehly and private equity firm Clearlake Capital took over Chelsea for £4.25bn in 2022. They have made a number of signings, but Gallagher has consistently played regularly, helping the club finish 12th and 6th in the last two seasons.

Meanwhile, Boehly has changed permanent managers 4 times, starting with Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino. And most recently appointing Enzo Maresca to manage the team. Overall, Chelsea is still unstable and lacks a clear playing style.

http://ufabet999.app Sport journalist Nizaar Kinsella said: “Some fans have been surprised by the board’s performance. And the departure of Gallagher, a player who loved the club so much. There are many similarities with Mason Mount’s move to Manchester United last summer.”

“They are homegrown superstars and the fans feel they are being pushed out. Ultimately, Chelsea don’t believe Gallagher, with his energy levels and incredible fitness, can do the creative work that will soon become the club’s identity.”

Gallagher grew up near Chelsea’s Cobham training ground and rose through the club’s youth system. He previously won the Under-17 World Cup with England in 2017 and made his first-team debut under Tuchel in 2022.

Gallagher has had loan spells at Charlton Athletic, Swansea City, West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace in recent years, and has made 95 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea. Scoring 10 goals and was named in England’s squad for Euro 2024.

“Gallagher will add enough energy, intensity and quality to help the team and make an impact on Atletico Madrid. After this season they want to build a new team,” said Spanish football expert Guillem Balague .

Diego Simeone has brought in a young player full of energy, determination and dedication in Gallagher at the right price. While Chelsea under Maresca will have to prove that they made the right decision to let this homegrown player leave Stamford Bridge. Of course, only “time and results” will tell whether this deal will ultimately fail or end in a win-win situation for both parties.