Former Chelsea forward, Salomon Kalou has sent an encouraging message to Chelsea fans, particularly those in Nigeria, following the club’s 2–1 home defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday evening.
Kalou, who won the Premier League and UEFA Champions League during his time at Stamford Bridge, spoke exclusively on Sports Radio Brila FM after the loss dampened the mood among Blues supporters hoping to celebrate alongside Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
“Sometimes We Have Difficult Moments” – Salomon Kalou
Addressing the disappointment surrounding the result, Kalou urged Chelsea fans to remain calm and patient, reminding them of the club’s history of resilience.
“Well, Chelsea fans from Nigeria, Lagos, from all the way in Nigeria, everywhere, I mean, as a Blues fan, we know that sometimes we have difficult moments,” he said.
The Ivorian legend insisted Chelsea’s identity remains intact despite the setback against Aston Villa.
“But Chelsea always prevail.”
Confidence in Chelsea’s Ability to Bounce Back
Salomon pointed to Chelsea’s ability to rise above adversity, referencing past successes on the global stage.
“Chelsea show in the World Cup Club that we can always go beyond expectations and win games,” he said.
He acknowledged the club’s current league position but remained optimistic about the season ahead.
“Yes, in the league, we are a little bit behind the first three, but Chelsea can always bounce back. We are the team that always bounce back.”
“We Still Have the Cup Game and the Champions League” – Salomon
While admitting that the Premier League title may be a stretch, Kalou reminded supporters that silverware is still within reach.
“So I have faith that by the end of the season, we all will be in the top,” he said.
“We might not win the league, but we still have the Cup game and the Champions League.”
A Brief Record of Salomon Kalou’s Chelsea Spell
Early Career & Transfer to Chelsea
Salomon Armand Magloire Kalou, born on 5 August 1985 in Oumé, Ivory Coast, began his professional career at ASEC Mimosas before moving to Dutch club Feyenoord in 2003, where he impressed with strong goalscoring form.
Chelsea signed him from Feyenoord in May 2006 for around £9 million, bringing him to Stamford Bridge as a young, versatile forward under manager José Mourinho.
Chelsea Career (2006–2012)
Salomon Kalou Joined Chelsea 30 May, 2006. At Chelsea, Kalou played mainly as a forward/winger, often as an impact substitute but also starting many key games.
Over six seasons he made 156 Premier League appearances, scoring 36 league goals (and 254 appearances with 60 goals in all competitions).
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Key Contributions & Trophies:
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Premier League title (2009–10)
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UEFA Champions League winner (2012) — he featured in the final victory.
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FA Cup wins (multiple) and League Cup successes.
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Community Shield victory.
During his time, he was valued for his versatility, work rate and contributions in big matches, even if many of his appearances were off the bench. thechels.info+1
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Contract & Later Years at Chelsea:
In October 2009, he signed a new contract extending his stay until 2012, showing the club’s faith in his role.
Departure from Chelsea
Kalou’s contract expired in July 2012, and he left Chelsea on a free transfer after six successful years at the club. Immediately after leaving Chelsea, Kalou signed with French Ligue 1 side Lille OSC on a four-year deal.
