In 2012, Chelsea secured the signing of a young prodigy, Charly Musonda, beating out giants like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.
At just 15 years old, the Belgian talent moved from Anderlecht to Stamford Bridge, with expectations reaching sky-high levels.
Musonda was on the path to becoming one of football's next big wonders. However, fate had a different plan for him.
A severe knee injury sidelined Musonda for three agonizing years, a setback that eventually led to his departure from Chelsea last summer. Despite his early promise, he managed only seven first-team appearances during his time at the club.
Currently, the midfielder plies his trade with Anorthosis Famagusta in the Cypriot First Division. His journey began in the Blues' academy, where he showcased his talents.
Before his injury, the Belgian had already clinched two league titles, two FA Youth Cups, and the UEFA Youth League during his time in the Chelsea youth system.
Tragically, his career came to an abrupt halt as he suffered a knee injury during his debut, which happened to be a friendly against Royal Antwerp.
While speaking to The Athletic recently, Musonda opened up on his failed carried at Stamford Bridge and how he could've become the club's 'next best thing'.
“In that game, the ball was in the air and someone just put his studs in my knee.
“As I hit the ground, I could feel something was wrong. It was almost half-time, so I was almost limping to half-time. As I was going into the changing room, my knee had swollen up.”
“Had I been fully fit and had a bigger opportunity, then obviously things could have gone differently. But at the end of the day, that’s life, that’s the way things go. You have to have faith in the future.”
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