Edouard Mendy was greeted with a standing ovation, as he joined his Chelsea colleagues before of Wednesday’s FIFA Club World Cup semi-final against Al Hilal.
Mendy, who helped Senegal win the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time on Sunday, joined the club on Tuesday.
The goalie saved Mohanad Lasheen’s penalty kick in the penalty shootout against Egypt at the Olembe Stadium in Yaounde, and the Lions of Teranga won 4-2.
And Mendy was greeted warmly by his Chelsea teammates on Wednesday, as the club prepares for its Fifa Club World Cup match on Wednesday evening.
In addition to his FIFA The Best title, the Chelsea shot stopper was named the 2021 AFCON Best goalkeeper of the tournament.
The Senegalese safest pair of hands hugged and shook his club teammates as they hailed him, according to a video provided by the club.
As he arrived at the team’s camp in Abu Dhabi, the former Rennes player was greeted with applause from the squad and staff, who formed a guard of honour.
Chelsea defeated Al Hilal 1-0 in the Club World Cup Semi-final, thanks to a Lukaku goal.
In the Chelsea cabinet, the silverware is the only thing left out.
Meanwhile, Chelsea coach Zsolt Low has claimed that replacing Kepa Arrizabalaga will be difficult for the African goalkeeper.
“We need to check him out and talk to him.” “We’ll see in a few days if there’s a chance he plays,” Low told the reporters, Chelsea posted on their website.
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“We have two fantastic goalkeepers, which is a fortunate situation for the coaches.” Mendy had a terrific tournament, winning the Africa Cup and being named the best goalie.
“Kepa has done an incredible job and saved a crucial penalty in the last game.” He is also in excellent physical condition.
“When Mendy arrives, we’ll have a meeting with him, as well as the goalie coaches, and then we’ll make a decision.”
When questioned about the wonderful sights in Dakar as Senegal celebrated their first African Cup of Nations victory, Low said:
“We were all ecstatic for Mendy. Winning the Africa Cup is really crucial for him and all African players.”
He gave an outstanding performance. It was critical for him to celebrate with his teammates and country. It was a wonderful occasion!”
Mendy was signed in a £22 million ($31 million) transfer from Ligue 1 side Rennes as the six-time English Premier League champions wanted to improve their goalkeeping solidity after costly blunders had crept into their game.
He has now proven to be one of the best value buys, assisting the London club in becoming European champions.
