Michy Batshuayi has revealed his love for Chelsea and says he feels at home at Stamford Bridge, despite reports linking the player with a move away in the January transfer window.
The Belgian international joined Chelsea in a £33m deal from Marseille in 2016, but has struggled to establish himself as a key figure. He has been loaned out to Borussia Dortmund, Valencia and Crystal Palace since arriving in the Premier League three years ago.
The 26-year-old is back at the club this season and has failed to start a single fixture under Frank Lampard so far, but the forward insists he remains happy with life at the club despite his lack of minutes.
“I have never been a full-fledged starter, but Chelsea is my club, that’s where I feel at home,” Batshuayi said this week.
“It’s a club I love deeply.”
Batshuayi added that he believes he has matured as a footballer, having experienced some disciplinary issues earlier in his career.
“When I was young, it’s true that I had some problems of discipline, but what young person doesn’t?” he added.
“Today, I’m 26 years old, I can channel myself and I work at training and in the game.
“I’m playful, but I choose my moments: at 0-0 I’m going to be serious, at 2 or 3-0 I’m going to play it up. Being cool is part of my personality.
“But it’s true: the pressure of football imposes the need to perform and win. The competition is raging, and seriousness is needed.”
Chelsea return to Premier League action this weekend with a huge clash at champions Manchester City on Saturday evening. Frank Lampard’s side currently sit third in the division, one point and one place above this weekend’s opponents.
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