Player Chelsea released for free is now emulating N’Golo Kante at his new club

Sarr joined Chelsea in August 2020 but struggled significantly to establish himself in the first team, spending much of his four-year tenure out on loan at Porto and Monaco. Over his entire stay at Stamford Bridge, he made just 21 competitive appearances before his contract was eventually terminated.

Conversely, Kante arrived in 2016 and became a club legend over seven illustrious seasons, winning the Premier League, Champions League, and Europa League.

However, since leaving Chelsea, Sarr has truly shown what he’s capable of at RC Lens.

QUARTER-FINAL 1: Reece James vs Estevao Willian

Malang Sarr averages the most interceptions in Europe

Malang Sarr is averaging the most interceptions per game in Europe at his current club, RC Lens, right now – the stat Kante used to dominate almost every season at Stamford Bridge.

He currently averages 2.4 interceptions per game (71 in total) from 2700 minutes.

However, as his contract approaches its June expiry, his remarkable resurgence has sparked significant interest from Premier League and Saudi Pro League clubs, leaving the defender with a major decision.

Xavi’s win rate is impressive – would you take him at Chelsea?

He’s won 156 of 244 games.

How the current Chelsea defenders rank for interceptions

Malang Sarr’s defensive impact at Lens this season is statistically superior to Chelsea’s current options.

Wesley Fofana is the closest with 1.81 interceptions per 90, followed by Trevoh Chalobah (1.18), Jorrel Hato (1.08), Benoit Badiashile (1.73), and Tosin Adarabioyo (1.02).

Chelsea’s defenders are involved in various defensive actions, but Sarr’s ability to read the game and disrupt play at a high volume highlights why his departure is increasingly viewed as a missed opportunity.