Kalidou Koulibaly ‘didn’t hesitate’ when Chelsea came calling as he links up with his new team-mates

Kalidou Koulibaly insists he ‘didn’t hesitate’ in signing for Chelsea as he felt the time was right to leave Napoli after eight happy years in the Serie A.

The Senegalese defender completed his £34million move to Stamford Bridge last week and is excited at the prospect of becoming a leading figure for Thomas Tuchel’s team.

Koulibaly, who recently joined up with his new team-mates on their pre-season tour of America, also revealed how close he came to joining Chelsea in 2016 only for the move not to come to fruition.

Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, Koulibaly said: ‘I spent eight years in Napoli, everyone knew me there and we were happy living in Naples. 

‘After eight years, I felt it was time for a new challenge and as soon as Chelsea called, I didn’t hesitate. It almost happened before in 2016 but now, in 2022, I’m delighted to be here.

‘I’m very happy and excited to be here and to join up with the team in America. I was in London a few days ago to sort everything out and now I’m here, I’m so excited to play for this club.

‘Now I’m a Chelsea player, I just want to thank everyone for making this happen. The staff, the coach for wanting me and all the boys for making me feel so welcome. Already, I feel at home.’

The 31-year-old felt the time was right to leave Napoli after eight happy years in Serie A

Koulibaly revealed both Jorginho (left) and Edouard Mendy (right) text him to come to Chelsea

The centre back was delighted to see some familiar faces like Jorginho and compatriot Edouard Mendy after joining his new team-mate Stateside – and reveals how they were in constant contact as he edged closer to completing a move.

‘I speak a lot with them…