A Chelsea legend has made some rather critical comments concerning CFC co-owner Todd Boehly. The World Cup winner with France implied certain Blues bosses' mismanagement of financial matters. Furthermore, Emmanuel Petit argues that errors may in fact lead to the departure of the current club captain. A player who is one of the best performers - from a small group of standouts - of the Mauricio Pochettino era. Will Conor Gallagher leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the current campaign and is Petit correct about the American financier and staff's supposed mistakes?
Before we get started, Petit is another ex-professional who has earned the right to give very frank insights into his former teams' problems. I would say that the Frenchman is definitely worth listening to. Incidentally, in his day, he was one of the lesser-known top midfielders in the entire world.
With less media chatter and coverage than teammate Patrick Vieira and international colleague Zinedine Zidane, the 53-year-old often dazzled and influenced games almost as effectively. I was lucky enough to see Petit play live for Arsenal on more than one occasion in the Premier League. His touch, presence, competitiveness, technical ability, finishing and vision are all underrated.
So, what has Petit said about his one-time side Chelsea? Well, the retired imposing central midfielder, who was at the Bridge for around three seasons, has been speaking about Boehly's lack of prowess as CFC chief. In addition to mentioning a direct, problematic affect of miscalculations and ill-advised overspending.
Any Blue reading this is probably already aware that the west London outfit must balance its books this offseason in order to comply with and satisfy rules and regulations of the English top-flight. Unfortunately the way to do this may be by selling 'homegrown' stars such as Gallagher or Reece James. Real Madrid are still apparently interested in the fullback; I am sure that a host of teams would be glad to secure James or his teammate for club and country during the upcoming transfer window.
First of all, Petit admitted that he's "happy" that he didn't have to play under Boehly while on Fulham Road. Regarding profit, sustainability and general stature, Petit does not hold back. He declares that the Chels' ownership is "running the club into the ground". The former Blues star is not impressed with inconsequential recruitment overall, either. He alleges that signing so many players means that Gallagher may have to be sold.