Lesley Ugochukwu left her native Brittany this summer, heading to southwest London. If the rain should not disturb the former gem of Stade Rennais, the midfielder will have to make his place within a club where the competition is immense. And the international hopeful started well, since he showed good flashes when he came into play in the Premier League, but also and especially in the Carabao Cup against Wimbledon (2-1), for his first start. In an exclusive interview with The ParisianUgochuwku tells the story of his transfer to Chelsea as well as his first steps.
“Initially I thought I would do the whole season with Rennes, but football goes quickly. Chelsea had been following me for a while. I was attracted to what they wanted to do and what they saw in me. Also in relation to my ambitions, I think it was perfect to leave at that time. They say I can become a great midfielder, if I put in the work and everything goes well. It’s up to me to prove that I can have my place in the long term. I wanted to take this step”, he explains. He pursues : “It’s Chelsea!” Just look at all the trophies they’ve won and the legends that have passed through. When a club of this stature comes to look for you, it’s very difficult to refuse.” As for adaptation, the former Rennes player is staying at the hotel, “it’s a bit unusual but soon I will have my own place. The adaptation is going well. In the team, there are quite a few French people, I open up to everyone. I have parents of Nigerian origin so it’s easier for English too.” With the injury of Roméo Lavia, that of Carney Chukwuemeka and the loan of Andrey Santos to Nottingham Forrest, Lesley Ugochukwu has a chance to play at the start of the season in midfield.
