Axel Disasi Reveals 'Crazy' Chelsea Exile Before West Ham Loan Rescue
French defender Axel Disasi has candidly described the final months of his Chelsea tenure as "crazy" after being relegated to the club's so-called 'bomb squad' before securing a vital loan move to West Ham United. The 27-year-old centre-back completed his switch to the Hammers on the January transfer deadline day, joining on loan until the season's conclusion.
From West London Exile to East London Regular
Since arriving at the London Stadium, Disasi has experienced an immediate transformation in his fortunes. He has started both of West Ham's Premier League matches since his arrival and featured prominently in their 1-0 FA Cup fourth-round victory at Burton Albion on Saturday. This regular first-team action stands in stark contrast to his situation at Chelsea, where he failed to play a single minute for the first team this season.
In fact, it had been over a full year since Disasi last appeared for Chelsea before his West Ham move, with former Blues head coach Enzo Maresca excluding him from first-team training sessions entirely. The French international found himself in professional limbo, watching from the sidelines as his career stalled dramatically.
'My Situation Was a Little Bit Crazy'
Speaking openly about his challenging ordeal on the Iron Cast podcast, Disasi reflected: "It has been really nice, my situation before was a little bit crazy. For me it is only a positive to be here, it feels great to be part of something."
The defender elaborated on how he navigated this difficult period, stating: "In Chelsea the time was a little bit crazy but my background helped me to get through. I stayed sharp, I was working hard and always made sure that my head stayed in the right way."
Disasi particularly emphasized the crucial support he received during his exile, revealing: "My family helped me a lot going through this. During this period I saw that my background helped me a lot."
New Lease of Life at West Ham
The defender now appears to have found a new lease of life in east London, with regular playing time restoring his professional momentum. His immediate integration into David Moyes' squad suggests West Ham see him as an important defensive asset as they battle to secure their Premier League status.
Disasi will be hoping to continue his positive impact when West Ham host Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday at 5.30pm, as the Hammers seek crucial points in their relegation battle. The Frenchman's journey from Chelsea exile to West Ham regular serves as a testament to professional resilience in the face of challenging circumstances.
