Another French-born African goalkeeper departs Chelsea 

Former Morocco U20 international goalkeeper Sami Tlemcani has taken to social media to announce his departure from English Premier League side Chelsea. 

Born in Saint-Maurice, Val-de-Marne, France, Tlemcani is the second French-born African goalkeeper to depart Chelsea in recent days, following in the footsteps of Montivilliers-born Senegal international Édouard Mendy.

Tlemcani joined Chelsea on scholarship terms in 2020 from Paris FC and signed his first professional contract the following year. 

The 18-year-old was loaned out to Isthmian League Premier Division side Merstham for a portion of the 2021-2022 season.

Apart from Morocco, he is eligible to represent France and Algeria at international level but has reportedly committed his future to the 2019 African champions. 

Writing on Instagram, Tlemcani said: "What to say about these past few years, got here when I was only 16 I'm 19 today. I am writing this message because my journey with the club that made me dream small is over.

"Thanks to all staff members, coaches, coaches... who made my progress possible that made me grow. Now its time for me to fly for a new experience."

Tlemcani represented Chelsea in the U18 Premier League, FA Youth Cup and MLS NEXT Pro Invitational. 

Igho Kingsley 

Photo Credit: chelseafc.com