Chelsea loanee opens up on decision to leave club and secure Ligue 1 switch

Emerson Palmieri has opened up about his lack of game-time at Chelsea and his pleasure of leaving on loan to Olympique Lyon

Speaking to Gazetta dello Sport (h/t Fabrizio Romano), Emerson Palmieri has opened up about his lack of opportunities of playing at Chelsea and his decision to join Olympique Lyon.

The 27-year-old signed for the Blues back in the winter transfer window of the 2017/18 season. The full-back was added to the squad at the time by Antonio Conte and boosted Chelsea’s options in the left-back role and also provided competition to Marcos Alonso.

Although Emerson won the FA Cup that season with the Blues, his Italian boss left the club that summer, and fellow countryman Maurizio Sarri was appointed. The full-back featured 27 times in the 2018/19 season and played a vital role in winning the UEFA Europa League that term. 

However, game-time dried up slightly during Frank Lampard’s first season at the club as he racked up just about 1500 minutes on the pitch. Last season, the West London giants signed Ben Chilwell in a big-money move, and the Englishman played the majority of the games. 

Emerson rarely featured once Thomas Tuchel took over as well but the Italian scored an important Champions League goal in the 2nd leg of the Round of 16 against Atletico Madrid. 

The 27-year-old achieved glory with his national team earlier this summer as he played a pivotal role in winning the European Championship.

The defender joined Olympique on loan last month and has now revealed that he is delighted with the decision he made. Emerson told Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t Fabrizio Romano), that he was told by Italian head coach Roberto Mancini that he needs to be a starter in a team.

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Marcos Alonso has so far played a great role for the London club this season, while Ben Chilwell might also have a part to play at some point. Thus, in a move that has benefitted all parties, Emerson could get some much-needed game-time at Lyon this season.