‘It was crazy!’ – Chelsea questioned for leaving out £38m ‘machine’
El Hadji Malick Diouf lauds Axel Disasi’s transformation at West Ham, questions Chelsea’s decision
El Hadji Malick Diouf has expressed surprise at the lack of regular first-team opportunities for Axel Disasi during his time at Chelsea, describing the situation as “crazy.” The West Ham defender, who has been paired with Disasi in every league game for the club, highlighted the player’s rapid adaptation to the Premier League.
“It was crazy he stayed for so long and didn’t play, but when he came here, he showed he’s a machine!”
Disasi joined Chelsea in a £38 million transfer from Monaco in 2023, with high hopes for a key role in the squad. However, his performances during the 2024/25 campaign were inconsistent, leading to a loan move to Aston Villa halfway through the season. After returning to Stamford Bridge, he remained sidelined for the first half of the year before securing a second loan to West Ham.
Since arriving at West Ham, Disasi has made a strong impression, anchoring Nuno Espirito Santo’s defensive line with a series of solid displays. The French international has yet to concede a goal in his first six matches for the club, sparking speculation about his future at the club.
Diouf, who has lined up alongside Disasi in all five of his first league games for West Ham, emphasized the player’s value: “The guy is not a small player! He’s proven himself here, and it’s hard to believe he wasn’t given a chance at Chelsea.”
West Ham’s form boosts hopes of Premier League survival
West Ham’s recent turnaround has reignited optimism about their chances in the Premier League. After a dismal stretch of ten consecutive winless games between November and early January, the team has since earned four league victories in 2026, putting them on equal points with Nottingham Forest. A win against Manchester City in their next FA Cup quarter-final clash could elevate their position to 15th in the table.
“It’s a special night because we did a good game in a tough, tough stadium against a very good team, with a good manager and fantastic players,” said Espirito Santo after the victory over Fulham. “We know how hard it is to come here and achieve a result. That’s what pleases us the most. We don’t measure belief—we always have it. What we need is improvement. Today was a big, big day for us, but the situation never changed. Nothing has changed. It required a lot more from all of us.”
Disasi’s potential permanent move to West Ham hinges on the club’s ability to avoid relegation. With three-and-a-half years left on his Chelsea contract, the defender’s performance in the FA Cup could influence the club’s decision-making.
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