Chelsea’s top 5 French players of all time

(ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP/Getty Images)
(ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC Via Getty Images)
(Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC Via Getty Images) /

William Gallas: 2001-2006

Appearances: 225
Trophies: Premier League (2), League Cup, Community Shield

William Gallas was part of the trio that rotated through Chelsea’s central defense during Chelsea’s back-to-back title runs, accumulating a series of defensive records in the process. Along with John Terry and Ricardo Carvalho, Gallas held the line in front of Petr Cech that set a league record for clean sheets with 25 in 2004/05 and allowed only 15 goals in 2005/06.

Like his countryman Florent Malouda, Gallas did not enjoy a peaceful exit from Stamford Bridge. Gallas announced his desire to leave Chelsea with a full year left on his contract. Chelsea refused to transfer him, even as Gallas pushed for a transfer to AC Milan.

When Gallas failed to appear for a pre-season United States tour, Jose Mourinho publicly called out the Frenchman for his behavior and attitude. Finally, Chelsea sent Gallas and £5 million to Arsenal in return for Ashley Cole.

But even that was not the end. Once Gallas was ensconced in north London, Chelsea accused Gallas of blackmailing the Blues, threatening to score own-goals unless he was transferred. The club made these allegations in a lengthy public statement written to make fans “aware of the full facts regarding William Gallas and the lack of respect he showed to the fans, the manager and the club.”

The second paragraph showed a heavy hand behind the public statement.

"Despite leaving he continues to attack José Mourinho and this cannot be left unchallenged."

Next: Chelsea's top Portuguese players (and one manager) of all time

Gallas denied the accusations, and former Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri – who had signed Gallas from Marseille – stood up for him, as did the Professional Footballers’ Association chief executive.