Former Blues midfielder Xavier Simons has sent a message to Chelsea and the supporters after completing a permanent switch to Hull City.
Last week, Chelsea confirmed the deal which sees the 20-year-old join Hull, where he had been a loanee since the start of the season.
Simons often took part in Chelsea’s first-team training sessions under Thomas Tuchel before he decided to go on loan to the Championship side to pursue regular football.
He made his senior debut for the Blues in December 2021 in the League Cup tie against his former club Brentford, alongside former Chelsea academy teammates Harvey Vale and Jude Soonsup-Bell.
While naturally a midfielder, Simons played as a right wing-back in that game.
It was his only senior appearance for Chelsea, but at the academy level, he regularly captained the development squad.
He admitted the decision to leave Chelsea was a “tough” one but believes it is needed for his development as a player.
“After an amazing 6 years full of wonderful memories, it’s time for me to take the next step in my career,” the young midfielder wrote on Instagram.
“I want to say how grateful I am to the incredible players and staff members I have worked with, as they have shaped me into the person and player I am today.
“Also, a special thank you to the club for taking care of me through my difficult periods of injury.
“It’s been a tough decision to leave a club I have loved since the day I walked in at 14, the team I also made my first professional debut for, but I believe it’s the right one for my development.
“I hope to come across my teammates and coaching staff in the future.
“Finally, a massive thank you to the fans that have and continue to support me through my journey – Chelsea will always be in my heart.”
Considering the number of young midfield talents Chelsea brought in in the last two transfer windows, it is easy to see why Simons made the decision.
Cesare Casadei and Andrey Santos are among the club’s recent youth signings, while at the senior level, Chelsea spent a club-record fee on Enzo Fernandez.
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