Conor Gallagher rejects the idea that Chelsea sold him to Atletico Madrid because of his lack of technical skills.
The Pitch Prospect has learned that the 24-year-old was told he would not be a regular starting player following the arrival of new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca.
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Despite playing a key role for Mauricio Pochettitino last season, the Blues placed him on the transfer list after failing to agree a contract extension.
It is believed that Chelsea management expected Gallagher to develop into a squad player under Maresca’s possession-based style of football.
However, when the midfielder first discussed his departure, he denied that there were any technical deficiencies.
Gallagher said: “I don’t think that’s true.
“Last season I had a good season with Chelsea and you could see that Pochettino could use me in every game and show his trust in me.
“The fans appreciated my performance on the pitch.
“I’m very grateful for all of this and very grateful to the fans. And I’m very grateful to Pochettino for giving me this platform to express myself and be the best version of myself at Chelsea.”
A move from Stamford Bridge seemed likely after Gallagher rejected Chelsea’s offer of a two-year contract with an option for a further year.
After 18 years at the club, Gallagher was understandably disappointed by the short-term nature of the contract, as his teammates were given eight-year deals.
Commenting on this discrepancy, Gallagher said: “Chelsea make their own decisions and have brought in some top players on long-term contracts.
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“That wasn’t the case for me, but what happened is good for everyone.
“I can only say good things about Chelsea.
“I am so happy and grateful for everything they have done for me in the academy and the first team.
“As far as the fans are concerned, I liked them a lot, especially last season, which gave me confidence and a good feeling.”
Gallagher began his career at Chelsea and was loaned to Championship clubs such as Charlton Athletic and Swansea City.
Between 2019 and 2022, he was also loaned to then Premier League teams West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace.
During his time at Palace, he was named the club’s Player of the Year for the 2021–22 season.
He then made his Chelsea first-team debut in the 2022–23 season.
Gallagher has also represented England at various levels, making his senior international debut in November 2021.
He was in England’s squad for both the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 European Championship.
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The midfielder has been included in the current England squad ahead of the Nations League season which begins this weekend.
The Three Lions will face the Republic of Ireland at 5pm at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.