Trevoh Chalobah has revealed that Cesc Fabregas played a major role in convincing him to leave Chelsea for Como after 18 years with the Premier League club.
The 27-year-old defender has completed a €30 million move to the Serie A side, with additional bonuses included in the deal, and has signed a contract running until June 2031.
Chalobah said direct conversations with Fabregas, now Como’s head coach, helped persuade him to begin a new chapter in Italy.
Fabregas convinced Chalobah to join Como
Speaking to Como’s official website, Chalobah said Fabregas made his desire to sign him clear during their conversations.
“The call with Cesc was really good, he showed how much he wanted me,” Chalobah said.
The pair previously shared a connection at Chelsea, with Chalobah training alongside Fabregas during his early years at the club.
“Knowing Cesc, obviously, he’s been at Chelsea, and I trained with him when I was younger. Now obviously to play under him will be amazing. For sure, I’ll give it my all. I’m excited for this new journey.”
Chalobah joins Como after spending the majority of his career at Chelsea, where he progressed through the academy after joining as a child.
He made more than 150 competitive appearances for the Blues, while also having loan spells at Ipswich Town, Huddersfield Town and Lorient.
Defender closes Chelsea chapter
The move brings an end to an 18-year association with Chelsea for Chalobah, who joined the club’s academy at the age of eight.
Reflecting on his departure, the defender described leaving Stamford Bridge as the end of a remarkable journey.
“An 8-year-old boy walked through those doors. A man walks out. Dream lived. Purpose fulfilled,” Chalobah wrote on social media.
He thanked the coaches, teammates, staff and supporters who contributed to his development and encouraged Chelsea’s young players to remain patient and committed to their ambitions.
“To the young players: the path won’t always be smooth. But stay ready, stay positive, and keep your faith. God’s timing is always right,” he added.
Chalobah leaves Chelsea with several major honours on his CV, including the 2021 UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and Conference League.
He now begins a new challenge in Italy under Fabregas, with the former Chelsea midfielder hoping to help him establish himself as an important part of Como’s ambitions in Serie A.