Chelsea FC’s 50 Greatest Players Of All-Time
13. Ruud Gullit: 1995-1998
Ruud Gullit was a bona fide superstar before he came to Chelsea. His arrival heralded a new era for the Blues, one which would eventually lead to Roman Abramovich’s purchase.
Having won several league titles, trophies and European Cups with the likes of Feyenoord, PSV Eindhoven and AC Milan, Gullit brought his talents to Stamford Bridge for free as his career reached its twilight. This is in no way stating that he was past it, though, as he would prove.
He made 64 competitive appearances over his three seasons, helping the club begin a new era with their first FA Cup triumph in nearly 30 years. More impressively, his efforts during his last two campaigns came as Chelsea’s player-manager.
His undisputed quality saw him drive his teammates to get up to speed and thus his contributions established the Blues as a genuine footballing power. His stay may not have been as long as some of the other Chelsea FC greats, but there is no denying that his impact during his short stint was felt for years to come.
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