Chelsea tracking Montreal Impact winger after Didier Drogba recommendation
Chelsea are reportedly keeping tabs on Montreal Impact winger, Ballou Jean-Yves Tabla, as the 18-year-old continues to impress in Major League Soccer.
According to the latest reports, Chelsea are tracking little-known Montreal Impact winger, Ballou Jean-Yves Tabla. The youngster only made his senior debut for the MLS club this year, but a recommendation from ex-Impact player Didier Drogba has forced the Blues to keep an eye out.
ESPN claim that the 18-year-old is being watched closely by the West London club after Drogba’s referral.
"Chelsea are among several European clubs monitoring Montreal Impact winger Ballou Jean-Yves Tabla, sources close to the player have told ESPN FC…Premier League champions Chelsea are monitoring Tabla after being alerted to his potential by Didier Drogba, who worked with him during his spell in Montreal."
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Having debuted for the Impact’s feeder team in the lower leagues in Canada, Tabla graduated to the big leagues earlier this year. The winger has appeared in 14 out of the 18 games the Impact have thus far played, scoring two goals.
Most of us, especially those not based in the US, will have little idea who Tabla is. However, a recommendation of Didier Drogba cannot be taken lightly.
The Chelsea great spent two years in Montreal, netting 21 times in 33 MLS games. During that time he was able to train alongside Tabla and he was evidently impressed.
As much as Drogba was brought in as a marquee name, Montreal would have used him as a mentor to some of their younger and more inexperienced players. He may have spent a bit of time with Tabla, especially if he had noticed his talents from the off.
When dealing with players in leagues that are not traditional breeding grounds for Premier League talent, word of mouth is the best chance of uncovering a gem.
Chelsea fans, though, will be aware that the club’s last foray into MLS talent has not turned out to be that successful. The Blues signed Matt Miazga last winter for reasons still to be determined.
The American was sent out on loan last season and is destined to do the same this term. If Chelsea do end up signing Tabla, let’s hope he arrives with a clear plan and direction in mind.
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What do you think of this news? Do you trust Drogba? Share your thoughts in the comments below!