Kalidou Koulibaly underlined his excitement at the move to Chelsea and reflected on his eight happy years with Napoli.
The Senegalese defender grew into one of the strongest defenders in the world during his eight-year spell with the Partenopei and now he’s expected to be the leading figure in Thomas Tuchel’s new-look backline in West London.
Speaking to Chelsea’s media outlets, Koulibaly first discussed how he feels following the move to the Blues.
“I’m very happy and excited to be here and to join up with the team in America. I was in London a few days ago to sort everything out and now I’m here, I’m so excited to play for this club.
“Now I’m a Chelsea player, I just want to thank everyone for making this happen. The staff, the coach for wanting me and all the boys for making me feel so welcome. Already, I feel at home.”
He revealed what the last few days have been like for him after flying over from Italy.
“They have, yes. I wanted to pass my medical and get out to the pre-season tour in America as soon as possible but these things take a little bit of time.
“There was a lot of paperwork and documents to sort out first, so I did a lot of walking around the hotel on my own to kill time while I waited for the news to come in that it was done!
“I spoke a lot with the manager and with my family and I’m just really happy, because I made a big decision to come to Chelsea. I wanted to test myself in the greatest league in the world and I want to thank everyone for giving me this chance.”
The 31-year-old commented on how it felt to leave Napoli after eight years.
“Yes, of course. I spent eight years in Napoli, everyone knew me there and we were happy living in Naples. After eight years, I felt it was time for a new challenge and as soon as Chelsea called, I didn’t hesitate. It almost happened before in 2016 but now, in 2022, I’m delighted to be here.”
Finally, Koulibaly spoke about how it felt to see familiar faces like Jorginho and compatriot Edouard Mendy.
“I speak a lot with them both. Jorgi actually texted me and asked if I wanted to come to Chelsea! At the time, I wasn’t sure if they wanted me but of course, I said I would come with pleasure.
“It was the same with Edou, he asked me the question and I told him it was already done and I would see him soon! Now I’m here, I’m really happy to start this exciting journey.
“The squad looks great with a good mix of younger players and those with more experience.”
During his eight years with Napoli, Koulibaly made 316 appearances across all competitions, scoring 14 goals and providing eight assists. He was a part of the team that won a Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana, as well as playing a key role in Senegal’s AFCON victory earlier this year.