By Ben Sutherland (Flickr: DSC01327) , via Wikimedia Commons
Off to a brilliant start in his third campaign at Chelsea FC, Brazilian playmaker Oscar has been awarded a new five-year contract with the club, keeping the 23-year-old in Chelsea blue until at least 2019.
Oscar has contributed four goals and two assists so far this campaign in 15 appearances. His impressive defensive display against Arsenal earned him plaudits across the footballing world.
After a dip in form last season, which Mourinho bemoaned, Oscar has been everything Chelsea fans have wanted him to be when Mourinho made him his No.10 and wanted to build his team around him.
His performances this season propelled Mourinho to heap praise onto him after Chelsea’s 2-1 at Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace last month.
"“He’s not a number 10 that plays with the ball at his feet, he’s a number 10 that looks back, looks to the side, analyses the game and sees where the team needs him to move to get the ball and also to create balance.”"
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It’s no secret that Oscar is special when it comes to his tactical IQ and that’s why Mourinho opted for Oscar over fan-favorite Juan Mata last year. It was evident in Oscar’s first start for the club, a Champions League match-up against Juventus, that showed why Chelsea brought over the budding star.
His two magnificent goals and the way he shut down Andrea Pirlo in the match was just a glimpse of his prowess in the midfield.
Oscar says he is happy to remain London upon agreeing to his new contract.
"“I am so happy because I love playing for Chelsea and living in England. I have enjoyed playing here for two years, and now I have five more, so I am very happy.”"
This should effectively kill off the “Oscar to PSG” rumors that had swirled around a bit towards the end of last season as well.
Overall, this is fantastic for the club as Mourinho looks to create a new Chelsea spine that can carry on for the next decade or so, and I have a feeling, and I’m sure many of you as well, that we still have yet to see the absolute very best of Oscar.
Now do Hazard next Chelsea!