Chelsea Academy Stalwart Neil Bath to Depart After Three Decades

Neil Bath – A key figure in Chelsea’s academy will leave the club after 31 years. Bath informed Chelsea two months ago that he was considering his position and despite efforts to retain him he has decided to step away.

Bath has been instrumental in developing talents like Conor Gallagher, Mason Mount, and Tammy Abraham.

With Bath’s departure, Joe Shields (the co-director of recruitment and talent) will have an enhanced role while Sam Jewell (director of global recruitment) will also play a significant part in the process.

Chelsea are facing competition from Arsenal for Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori. According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have shown interest in the Bologna defender with Mikel Arteta approving him as a target. The asking price for Calafiori is around €50 million (£42 million) but no formal bids have been made yet.

Chelsea might consider including players in a potential deal to secure the in-demand defender. Both clubs are keen to strengthen their defenses ahead of the new season making Calafiori a hot commodity in the transfer market.