Edouard Mendy has insisted that Chelsea’s long-term rebuild is beginning to take shape, arguing that the club are laying the foundations for a return to Europe’s elite.
The former Chelsea goalkeeper, now playing for Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, said he continues to follow the club closely, “always watching and cheering them on from Saudi” and believes the project unfolding at Stamford Bridge is headed in the right direction.
Mendy, who was instrumental in Chelsea’s 2021 Champions League triumph, departed west London in 2023 after three seasons that saw him become a fan favourite for his assured presence and crucial interventions on the biggest stage. Yet the Senegal international says his connection with the club remains strong. Speaking to Telecom Asia , the 33-year-old said he retains great affection for the team that helped transform his career.
I think Chelsea are doing well and they’re on a good path to being really successful in the coming years. I’m always watching their matches here in Saudi Arabia and wishing them good luck. I hope the players can achieve great things together.
Chelsea’s recent seasons have been marked by sweeping change, from ownership to recruitment strategy.
But while the turbulence has often shown on the pitch, Mendy believes the club’s shift toward a younger, high-potential squad is beginning to yield clearer signs of progress.
With a squad largely built around players in their early twenties, many of them signed with long-term development in mind, the former No 1 says patience will be repaid.
He said:
For me, there is real quality in that group. When you invest in young players, it always takes time. But Chelsea know that, and I think the work they’re doing now will bring trophies in the future.
Mendy’s influence during Chelsea’s 2021 European campaign remains a defining part of his legacy at the club.
His performances under Thomas Tuchel, including memorable saves against Real Madrid and Manchester City, were central to securing Chelsea’s second Champions League title.
Supporters still speak of him with admiration, recalling a goalkeeper whose calmness often steadied the team in high-pressure moments.
Now watching from thousands of miles away, Mendy remains convinced that Chelsea are beginning to rediscover their identity. For him, the club’s future is bright and he intends to keep cheering them on from afar.
