My career stagnated at Chelsea - it's a relief I left in the summer transfer window

The latest Chelsea news as one of Clearlake Capital's first signings opens up about his short spell at Stamford Bridge

Former Chelsea winger Diego Moreira has revealed how his footballing career was 'stagnating' during his short spell at the club.

The 20-year-old joined the Blues in 2023 from Benfica following the expiry of his contract. His only appearance came in the EFL Cup against AFC Wimbledon before moving to Lyon on loan.

In France, Moreira played nine times before being recalled by Mauricio Pochettino. He didn't play under the Argentine in the second half of last season before sealing a permanent move to Strasbourg in the summer window.

The Ligue 1 side are owned by the same owners as Chelsea and the Portugal Under-21 international has adjusted to life at the Stade de la Meinau rather well. He has played seven times already this season, playing at left-back and as a forward.

In an interview with French outlet La Derniere Heure, Moreira has opened up about his struggles during his very short time at Chelsea. "And I see myself staying here. Since I got here, it's been a relief.

"I rediscover this joy of playing football, of having fun. Then everything is great: the coach, the club, the infrastructure, the quality of life, the city.

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Asked about his time in London, where he trained with the Under-21s, Moreira added: “Yes, especially since I suffered my very first injury. I was out of action for a month and a half, then I played two matches, and I got injured again: torn hamstrings.

“It’s true that the level of academy football is not comparable to professional football: you have the impression that you are stagnating, that you are not learning anything. Yes, we still learn something every day, but at that time I needed to gain experience. That’s not what I was looking for.”

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