A chance to salvage his career: Chelsea star departs officially for Napoli

Will he succeed?

Chelsea have confirmed that French defender Benoit Badiashile will join Napoli on a season-long loan, a move that hands the player a fresh chance to rediscover his form and get back to competitive action after falling out of the London club's plans this season.

The Blues announced the transfer on their official website, confirming the 25-year-old defender, capped twice by France, will wear the Italian club's shirt for the coming campaign.

Badiashile arrived at Stamford Bridge from Monaco in January 2023 and went on to feature 71 times across all competitions. He did not fit into Xabi Alonso's plans for the new season, though, and a temporary exit suited both parties.

Naples offers the Frenchman a shot at reviving his career. He wants regular football and a return to the form he showed at Monaco before heading back to Chelsea once the loan expires.

His diminished role at Chelsea has pushed him to prove himself all over again. Napoli, meanwhile, are keen to make the most of his defensive qualities in the season ahead.