Chalobah Joins Como, Inspired by Fabregas

In an unexpected turn in the transfer market, former Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah has officially completed a permanent move to Italian club Como, concluding a lengthy 20-year affiliation with Chelsea. The transfer, finalized for a fixed fee of €30 million plus add-ons, marks a new chapter for the 27-year-old as he seeks to establish himself in Serie A.

Chalobah was drawn to Como, a club he believes has a bright future, largely due to the influence of their head coach, Cesc Fabregas. The defender opted to snub interest from reigning Serie A champions Inter Milan, feeling the Como project would offer him the chance to make a significant impact.

Discussing his decision, Chalobah stated, “He (Fabregas) was a massive part. He explained what he wanted, the way he sees the club and how he sees me fitting into this club and how I can help – having a lot of experience, physicality as well, the leadership.” The conversation with Fabregas provided the clarity Chalobah needed to embrace this new opportunity.

Reflecting on his departure from Chelsea, where he had experienced both triumph and challenges, Chalobah remarked, “It wasn’t an overnight thing; it was a very thoughtful and hard decision.” He emphasized the allure of Como’s trajectory, stating, “the direction it’s going in, and speaking to the manager, and wanting to be part of this story.”

Chalobah leaves Chelsea after making 151 competitive appearances, highlighting a career that began in the club’s youth ranks. Despite being in and out of the first team due to various managerial changes, he expressed nothing but pride for his time at the club. “I always wanted to play for Chelsea no matter what the circumstances were,” he said. “I’m grateful for every setback, every challenge, every trophy I’ve won. I’ve won a few things there, and it’s a club where I’ve improved and learned a lot.”

As Chalobah embarks on this new journey, he reflects on his growth from a young academy prospect to a seasoned player, stating, “Stepping in as a young boy and then leaving as a man, I’m really happy with my career there. I will always keep the blue flag flying.” He plans to follow Chelsea from afar, expressing deep appreciation for the journey he undertook at Stamford Bridge.

This transfer comes on the heels of a summer where Chalobah made a late appearance in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 World Cup. Though England faced a tough semi-final exit, they secured a victory against France in the third-place playoff, a bittersweet end to their campaign.

Chalobah shared his thoughts on that experience, reflecting on the disappointment of not reaching the final but also valuing the achievements of the squad. “No one wants to come third. You’re just one step away from the final. It was definitely hard for the players. It did hit us for a couple of days… But we learn from this and be proud of what we’ve done and achieved.” With a new challenge ahead in Como, Chalobah looks forward to making a mark in Italy.