Chelsea FC announced today that Brazilian midfielder Ramires has signed a new contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2019. The pacey midfielder has been one of the few bright spots in a tumultuous season for the Blues. His goal against Newcastle United helped spark a vital comeback against the Magpies and his energy has been key in many games.
Ramires joined the club in the summer of 2010 from Portugese club Benfica, and made 41 appearances in his maiden campaign at Chelsea. He was signed off the back of a strong World Cup showing with the Selecao which saw him garner the interest of several top clubs in world football. That season also saw him take home the club’s Goal of the Season award, for this goal against Manchester City:
The following year, Ramires scored that goal against Barcelona en route to helping the club reach the Champions League Final and was one of the most vital players during their journey of becoming champions of Europe. The Brazilian also opened the scoring in the FA Cup Final that season as well.
Throughout his five years at the club, Ramires has totaled 241 appearances in a Chelsea shirt and has tallied 33 goals to his name, some of which are the most important goals in the club’s history. His work-rate and ability to play many positions has been vital to all the Chelsea teams that he has been a part of. His consistency this season has been important amidst all the turmoil that has surrounded the club since the since the first match.