Chelsea have recalled Aaron Anselmino from Borussia Dortmund after activating a break clause in the deal.
Both clubs have confirmed the move. The return of the 20-year-old Argentine center-back from his season-long loan has caused a commotion in Germany. Chelsea had a strong reason for the move.
The decision made by the Blues reportedly infuriated Dortmund according to BILD, as Anselmino has a big presence in the squad and was someone they trusted in major moments.
The young defender was expected to finish the campaign in the Bundesliga.
Dortmund were taken by surprise by Chelsea's decision to trigger the recall clause so unexpectedly. Anselmino had settled well in the Bundesliga and was gaining respect within the dressing room. Losing the defender now feels like a major blow to the German side.
According to the aforementioned report from BILD, the timing of the move, combined with the fact that Dortmund were not given prior notice by Chelsea, has added to the anger and left the club in a state of turmoil.
The most memorable part of the story was Anselmino’s emotional farewell. Borussia Dortmund released a video showing the 20-year-old in tears as he said goodbye to his teammates and the coaching staff.
Dortmund also publicly thanked him for his commitment during his time in Germany. His reaction clearly showed how much his spell at the club meant to him.
Anselmino was not starting every week in Germany but he consistently delivered when given the opportunity. Across all competitions, he made eight appearances, contributing both a goal and an assist.
One of his most impressive attributes is his passing accuracy, which averaged around 88%. He also won nearly two-thirds of his aerial duels. These are impressive numbers for a defender of his age, so he clearly has a bright future in the game.
Dortmund coach Niko Kovac did not hold back his admiration for the youngster.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the game against Bayer Leverkusen in November, he remarked, "He fights with a crusader spirit. When things get tight, there's no nonsense with him; he breaks through.
"He really does very well when he plays. He had a bit of bad luck with a few problems after a very good debut and needed time, but you can rely on that young man from the first minute to the last.
"A great lad, but also a great defender."
Back in London, new head coach Liam Rosenior utilizes a defensive system that demands center-backs who are comfortable playing out from the back and moving the ball with confidence.
Due to fitness issues and the need for rotation, Chelsea moved to bring Anselmino back because he possesses exactly these technical abilities.
The Blues had been monitoring Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, but a January deal is proving to be difficult to finalize, leading the club to trust in their own talent.
Anselmino is expected to return to London immediately, with the 20-year-old potentially in line to make his Chelsea debut this Saturday against West Ham United at Stamford Bridge.
