Ben Chilwell has sent an emotional message to Chelsea supporters after his five-year stay at Stamford Bridge came to an end on Deadline Day. The 28-year-old left-back has joined French sister club Strasbourg on a two-year deal, drawing the curtain on a rollercoaster spell in west London that saw him win the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.
Chilwell, who joined Chelsea from Leicester in 2020 for £50m, made 107 appearances but saw injuries derail his progress. Having spent the second half of last season on loan at Crystal Palace, he was part of the so-called “bomb squad” and featured just once under Enzo Maresca before securing his exit.
Despite frustrations, the England international’s heartfelt farewell reflected deep gratitude to the fans and teammates who stood by him during triumph and tragedy.
Chilwell’s Goodbye Message
Writing on Instagram, Chilwell thanked Chelsea fans for their support:
“Chelsea fans, firstly thank you! We won the Champions League together, made a bond like I’d never have imagined and I met brothers for life on and off the pitch here. You helped me through the tough times, injuries, personal life, and gave me the best moments of my life.” — Ben Chilwell
The defender included highlights of his Blues career, with his goal in the 2021 Champions League triumph over Manchester City in Porto taking centre stage.
Highs, Lows and Legacy
Chilwell admitted his proudest day in football was lifting the Champions League in 2021 with his family watching on. He also reflected on personal struggles, including the loss of his father and serious injuries that stalled his career.
“Joining Chelsea was such a proud day for me and my family,” Chilwell said. “I had some tough times while I was at Chelsea. I had some really bad injuries, I lost my dad. But the one thing that will stick with me was the brothers I met along the way that helped me through it.”
Ben Chilwell Stats Snapshot (Chelsea Career)
| Stat (2020–2025) | Ben Chilwell |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 107 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 14 |
| Trophies Won | 3 (UCL, UEFA Super Cup, Club World Cup) |
source: Chelsea club data – 2 September 2025
The stats underline a career that promised so much but was undermined by injuries, though silverware and key contributions ensure his Chelsea legacy remains intact.
Analyst Verdict — John William
Chilwell’s farewell is another sign of Chelsea’s ruthless transition under Maresca and the BlueCo model. Injuries denied him the consistency to cement his place, but his role in the club’s 2021 Champions League triumph ensures he will always be remembered fondly.
For Strasbourg, his arrival is a coup. If fit, Chilwell can bring both experience and European pedigree to a youthful side aiming to make strides in the Conference League. His new chapter offers a chance to rebuild both his career and confidence away from the Premier League spotlight.
Key Insights
- Chilwell leaves Chelsea after five years and 107 appearances.
- Won Champions League, Super Cup, Club World Cup in 2021.
- Injuries and form led to limited minutes in recent seasons.
- Joins Strasbourg on two-year deal under Liam Rosenior.
- Emotional farewell thanks Chelsea fans for “best moments of my life.”
What’s Next for Chilwell?
At Strasbourg, Chilwell links up with several fellow Chelsea loanees in a team being reshaped by BlueCo investment. His experience in Europe could prove vital as they compete in the Europa Conference League.
For Chelsea, attention shifts to Marc Cucurella and Jorrell Hato as left-back options. Chilwell’s departure frees up squad space and wages, while offering him a new environment to rediscover his form.
Can Ben Chilwell reignite his career in France and prove he still has a future at the top level?
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