Can be world class - New Chelsea signing’s potential lauded by old manager

Chelsea announced the arrival of Mamadou Sarr on Monday, with the teenager signing from Strasbourg. 

Sarr, 19, is a centre-back capable of playing defensive midfield if necessary, meaning he could fill in both positions for the Blues. 

The Martigues-born youngster, who has played for France's youth sides from the U17s to the U20 level is likely to be among Chelsea's Club World Cup contingent, given that the transfer was completed before Tuesday's deadline for clubs involved in the summer event. 

The defender’s ceiling was lauded by Strasbourg manager in a previous interview with The Athletic, via Chelseafc.com. 

“I could talk about him for hours. His nickname is Mamadou Rosenior, he's my son,” said Liam Rosenior in an old interview.  “It's scary to show such performances at 19 with such calm in the face of such strong teams. He just has to stay humble and calm and he will be a top player for sure.'

“His temperament, his athleticism, his ability on the ball… he’s got everything you need to be a world-class centre-half.”

Sarr featured 28 times for Strasbourg in the 2024-25 season as the club secured a seventh-place finish, and the defender will hope to continue his progress at Stamford Bridge. 

Enzo Maresca’s Conference League winners will face LAFC on June 16, Flamengo on June 20 and ES Tunis five days later in their Club World Cup campaign.