'I don't think that's true': Conor Gallagher questions Chelsea transfer theory
Conor Gallagher has rejected the idea that Chelsea sold him to Atletico Madrid because of his lack of technical ability.
talkSPORT understands that the 24-year-old was told after the arrival of the new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca who would not be a regular starter.
Despite having played a key role for Mauricio Pochettitino last season, the Blues put him on the transfer list after failing to agree on a contract extension.
It is understood that the Chelsea hierarchy expected Gallagher to develop into a team player under Maresca's possession-based style of football.
But when he first addressed his departure, the midfielder denied having any technical deficiencies.
Gallagher said: “I don’t think that’s true.
“Last season I had a good season with Chelsea and you could see Pochettino lining me up in every game and showing his confidence in me.
“The fans appreciated what I did on the pitch.
“I’m very grateful for all of that and very grateful to the fans, and very grateful to Pochettino for giving me that platform to go and express myself and show the best version of myself at Chelsea.”
A move away from Stamford Bridge looked likely after Gallagher rejected Chelsea's offer of a two-year contract with the option of a further year.
After 18 years at the club, Gallagher was understood to be disappointed with the short-term nature of the deal, given his team-mates were being handed eight-year contracts.
On the discrepancy, Gallagher said: “Chelsea make their own decisions and have signed some top players on long contracts.
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“It wasn’t my situation, but what happened is good for everyone.
“I only have good things to say about Chelsea.
“I am very grateful for everything they did for me at the academy and the first team.
“As for the fans, last season in particular they welcomed me with great affection, which made me feel confident and good.”
Gallagher began his career at Chelsea, spending time on loan at Championship clubs Charlton Athletic and Swansea City.
He was also loaned out to then Premier League sides West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace between 2019 and 2022.
During his time at Palace, he was named the club's Player of the Year for the 2021-22 season.
He subsequently made his debut for Chelsea's first team during the 2022–23 season.
Gallagher has also represented England at various levels, making his senior national team debut in November 2021.
He was part of the England squad for both the 2022 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2024.
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The midfielder has been included in the current England squad ahead of their Nations League campaign which begins this weekend.
The Three Lions will face the Republic of Ireland at 17:00 CET at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.
