Ben Chilwell Joins Strasbourg on Two-Year Deal After Chelsea Exit

Ben Chilwell has signed a two-year contract with Strasbourg after leaving Chelsea. The England left-back joins an ambitious project under manager Liam Rosenior and is expected to be a key player for the French club, who will compete in the Europa Conference League this season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Strasbourg reached a decisive agreement with Chelsea for the permanent transfer of Ben Chilwell in the final hours of the summer window. Chilwell completed his medical on Monday and moves to Ligue 1 after being frozen out at Stamford Bridge. He replaces Ishé Samuels-Smith in the squad with the young defender heading to Swansea on loan. Chilwell, an ex-key player for Chelsea and England, saw limited playing time last season and was not part of Chelsea’s long-term plans.

WHY STRASBOURG AND WHAT IT MEANS

Strasbourg are building an ambitious project, with Rosenior in charge. They finished seventh last season, securing a place in the Europa Conference League qualifiers. Their ties to Chelsea ownership have helped facilitate the move. Chilwell brings a wealth of Premier League experience and leadership and is expected to strengthen Strasbourg’s defence while adding much-needed depth as they tackle a demanding campaign at home and abroad.

LOOKING AHEAD: STRASBOURG’S SEASON AND UPCOMING FIXTURES

Chilwell is likely to make his debut in Strasbourg’s next Ligue 1 match against Le Havre, with Strasbourg currently in seventh place and only three points behind the top two teams. The club’s immediate focus is on closing the gap to the top of the table while progressing in the Europa Conference League qualifiers. The team’s next few weeks are crucial, with matches against Montpellier and Nice to target ahead.