Kalidou Koulibaly [FC Chelsea]

Kalidou Koulibaly (31) hat sich gegen Juventus Turin und für den FC Chelsea entschieden. Die Blues gaben die Verpflichtung des Innenverteidigers von der SSC Napoli am Samstagmorgen offiziell bekannt. Laut übereinstimmenden Medienberichten liegt die Ablöse bei rund 38 Millionen Euro – eine stattliche Summe, wenn man bedenkt, dass der Kapitän des Senegal nur noch ein Jahr unter Vertrag stand. An der Stamford Bridge hat er bis 2026 unterzeichnet und verdient pro Saison 10 Mio. Euro.

Kalidou,

We spent eight incredible seasons together, experiencing things that will forever be etched in our memories.

You were only a youngster when you came to Naples, but you leave the club having become a man, knowing that you made history for Napoli.

You proved your worth not only as a footballer, but also in standing up for what’s right off the pitch, a battle in which we fight alongside each other. In particular, you’ve contributed greatly to combatting the scourge of racism, striving for a fairer and more compassionate society.

For the club, the fans, and the city, you are and will always be a figure to be looked up to; we’re proud to have you as an honorary Neapolitan. You set an example as a man who gives his all in both his personal and professional lives.

Now the time has come for our paths to diverge. We respect your decision to seek pastures new. Our love for you is eternal and whatever course your life may take, remember that Naples will always be your home.

Napoli