Many Blues fans argued that Marcel was past his best last season as his aging limbs failed to cope with the rigours of the Premiership at times. But I will always remember Marcel Desailly as the first great defender I have had the privilege of watching at Stamford Bridge.
A statement from Chelsea read: “The great Marcel Desailly, club captain, has ended his contract with Chelsea by mutual consent after six years at the club.
"He is returning to the south of France to consider his future and decide whether or not he wants to continue playing.”
Signed after winning the World Cup with France in 1998, Marcel had a great debut season, helping Chelsea to 3rd place in the Premiership. A year later and he was an FA Cup winner, followed by becoming a European Champion with France.
Shortly into the 2001/02 season, Luca Vialli was sacked, and the next few seasons were a transition period for the club. Despite many of the “older” players in the squad being sold on, Marcel remained an integral part of the side as Chelsea reached the FA Cup Final in 2002, before his excellent season helped us to 4th place in the league and a Champions League place.
Unfortunately, injuries and a lack of form, has meant that many Chelsea fans will remember Marcel for his performances in the season just past. Let us remember him as arguably the best foreign defender to have ever graced these shores. Good luck Marcel, you will never be forgotten at Stamford Bridge…