German footballers have travelled all across the globe. As one of the early adopters of pressing football tactics, combined with their infamous "sweeper" innovation, it is natural that Germany became the hub for footballing talent. One team who certainly have an impressive calibre of German players throughout history is Chelsea.
Particularly in the 21st century, Chelsea have seen some incredible German players travel across the pond to represent their beloved club. Ever since Chelsea were taken over financially in the turn of the millennium, they were fortunate enough to have access to resources which allowed them to sign players from foreign countries, including Germany.
That said, let's take a look through the history archives for the best German players to play for Chelsea.
The best German players to play for Chelsea
5. Robert Huth
Robert Huth was one of the first signings made during the Roman Abramovich era, putting the building blocks in place. The Germany international was signed as a teenager and benefited from a short time in Chelsea's youth ranks.
He then spent four years in the first-team, providing a colossal frame in the Chelsea back-line. Later in his career, Huth helped Leicester City to a remarkable Premier League trophy - With Chelsea, though, he won two.
4. Timo Werner
Timo Werner underperformed at Chelsea, but this was only by his own ridiculously high standards. He spent two years in London acting as Chelsea's primary attacker.
He was not as productive in front of goal as he was used to in Germany but he still contributed to Chelsea's Champions League win, so Werner will have no complaints about his time at Stamford Bridge.
3. Michael Ballack
Without a doubt, Michael Ballack became a Chelsea legend during his time in London. Having spent most of his career in his home country of Germany, Ballack did achieve success during his stint in the capital of England. In fact, Ballack racked up 105 Premier League appearances and lifted the same title in the 2009/10 season.
2. Kai Havertz
Many Chelsea fans may disagree with the inclusion of Kai Havertz in this list, given his move to Arsenal. However, history cannot be erased and Havertz imprinted himself into the Chelsea history books forever.
The Germany superstar performed as one of Chelsea's best players during their worst period and he even granted them their second Champions League trophy in history, scoring the only goal in the final.
1. Antonio Rudiger
With Chelsea, Antonio Rudiger established himself as one of the best defenders in the world. In hindsight, it was a blessing for the club that Rudiger dedicated five years of his career to Stamford Bridge, before moving to the Spanish capital to achieve even more success with Real Madrid. Rudiger won the FA Cup, Champions League and the Europa League with Chelsea.