Former Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo has revealed that a former manager attempted to shut down the club’s academy. Emenalo, who served as technical director between 2011 and 2017, claimed that the former boss urged owner Roman Abramovich to stop funding the academy and instead focus on the first team. However, Abramovich did not listen to the manager, and Emenalo believes that his decision to continue investing in the academy has been one of his best ever. Emenalo defended the academy when there was pressure and doubt, and he is proud of Abramovich for trusting him and giving the academy time. The likes of Mason Mount and Reece James have helped Chelsea win the Champions League under Thomas Tuchel, and starlets like Levi Colwill are set to play a significant role under incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino.
