Report: Chelsea Midfielder on Transfer to Atletico with No Regrets | OneFootball

Gallagher Embraces Atletico Move with No Hard Feelings Toward Chelsea

Conor Gallagher’s move from Chelsea to Atletico Madrid was one of the most talked-about transfers of the summer. The England international, however, harbours no resentment toward his former club. Having developed through Chelsea’s esteemed academy, Gallagher’s transfer was seen by many as a financial move to help the Blues, but the midfielder insists he is “really happy with the outcome.”

Gallagher’s Chelsea Journey

Gallagher was a standout figure under Mauricio Pochettino during the 2023/24 season, becoming a fan favourite due to his relentless energy and commitment on the pitch. Despite speculation that he would play a reduced role under new manager Enzo Maresca, Gallagher refuted those claims, saying: “I don’t think that’s true personally. Last season, I had a good season with Chelsea, and you could see by Pochettino playing me every game and showing his trust in me. The fans appreciated what I did on the pitch.”

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Gallagher’s time at Chelsea is remembered fondly. As an academy graduate, his journey through the ranks of one of England’s most storied clubs is a testament to the strength of the Blues’ youth development system. His departure for Atletico Madrid, however, signals a new chapter for the midfielder, and one he is embracing fully.

No Bitterness Toward Chelsea

With Chelsea’s financial constraints and significant squad overhaul, many fans viewed Gallagher’s exit as a necessity for the club to balance the books. However, Gallagher sees it differently, maintaining that there are no ill feelings toward his boyhood team. “Honestly, with Chelsea I have only got good things to say,” Gallagher said. “Amazing football club, my boyhood club where I grew up through the academy. I leave Chelsea with really special memories.”

Despite the complexities surrounding the transfer, Gallagher remains appreciative of Chelsea’s role in his development, especially the trust placed in him by Pochettino during his final season at Stamford Bridge. His connection with the fans, who sang his name during the opening weekend of the Premier League, remains strong. “I’m really thankful for the support and love Chelsea fans have shown me,” he added. “I feel a lot of love for the fans.”

Embracing the Atletico Challenge

Gallagher’s move to Atletico Madrid was valued at £35.8 million plus add-ons, and the midfielder has already set his sights on making an impact under Diego Simeone. While the transfer saga had its moments of uncertainty, particularly with Samu Omorodion’s potential move to Chelsea falling through, Gallagher was always confident in the outcome. “I was always confident the deal would go through because of how the manager [Simeone] and the club spoke about me and to me,” he stated.

The move to Atletico represents a new challenge for Gallagher, as he transitions from the Premier League to La Liga. Known for his tireless work rate and ability to break up play in midfield, Gallagher fits perfectly into Simeone’s defensive and disciplined style of play.

A Fresh Start for Gallagher

Gallagher’s move to Atletico Madrid closes a significant chapter in his career, but it opens another that could see him develop even further under the tutelage of Simeone. “I’m really happy with the outcome,” Gallagher said of the transfer. Despite leaving Chelsea, the midfielder feels optimistic about his future in Spain.

As Chelsea continues its rebuilding process with new signings on long-term contracts, Gallagher’s departure was perhaps inevitable. Still, for both player and club, this transfer appears to be mutually beneficial. “Chelsea make their own decisions, and they’ve brought in some top players on long contracts. That wasn’t the situation with me but, in the end, what happened is good for everyone, so everyone is happy,” Gallagher concluded.

With Atletico Madrid’s ambitions in La Liga and the Champions League, Gallagher’s move marks a fresh start and a new test at one of Europe’s top clubs. His commitment to succeed at Atletico mirrors the passion and energy he displayed at Chelsea. Fans on both sides of the move will undoubtedly be watching with interest as Gallagher embarks on this new chapter.