Stamford Bridge
ME
MRS SHEVA
MRS KAKA
MRS LAMPARD
MRS BALLACK
A TRUE-BLUE CHELSEA FAN =]
The Shed End
September 2008
October 2008
November 2008
December 2008
January 2009
February 2009
January 2010
March 2010
April 2010
July 2010
August 2010
April 2011
March 2012
When Ballack signed for Chelsea in 2006, i was really happy. A germany captain and winner from Bayern Munich, i was convinced that 2006 would be the year when Chelsea would finally win the champions league and of course reclaim the premier league title crown. He was given the no 13 amid some controversy but who cares when Ballack wants no 13 we give him no 13.
Its no surprise that when he arrived at Chelsea, many people start wondering if his arrival meant the departure of Frank Lampard. Afterall both play rather similar positions. However much to the critics' displeasure, Ballack and Lampard complemented each other well and often create goal-scoring chances for one another. Of course i was most pleased seeing that 2 of my favourite footballers could play in tandem.
Ballack for the record will be 34 after sept and its irritating to hear people playing down his abilities just because of his age. i know for athletes especially footballers age is important. once you hit 30, its hard for you to find another club that is willing to give you a second chance. BUT there are exceptions. and i think Ballack is one. Passing and controlling the ball well from midfield, scoring goals with both his feet, headers and free kicks, not to mention penalties (remember the one he took rather coolly against manu when it was at 1-1), he's a good midfielder and everything we could ask for.
He always mentioned that he was pleased to be at a club as big and successful as Chelsea and would love to spend his remaining career at stamford bridge. the thing is, why wasnt he given the chance?
Not till recently have i known of the truth behind his departure. His agent said that Ballack left due to some complications regarding his contract. nothing to do with wages, he's not joe the money scum. Ballack wanted a 2-year extension but Chelsea was only willing to give him 1. I can understand. In my opinion, he still has many years left in him but seriously i would be lying if i said he didnt once think about his retirement. Its obvious he wants to end his career with Chelsea and i applaud him for that. But from Chelsea's point of view, they need a guarantee that Ballack will still be playing at the highest level possible for the next 2 years. and sadly, i dont think they can see that.
Ballack's last game for Chelsea turned out to be the heart-wrenching one where he limped off injured after being tackled by kevin-prince boateng in the fa cup final against portsmouth. a pity he couldnt finish his Chelsea career off in style. As im typing this, he's already enjoying himself back at bayer leverkusen and im glad he's able to end his career in a club where he's cheered on by the supporters who used to rever him and still do.
Michael Ballack will forever remain a Chelsea player in my heart, the no 13 no one will ever be able to replace. I will always remember his handshake with jose mourinho, him holding his Chelsea jersey in front of the media, his very first game for Chelsea in a friendly, his first goal against werder bremen.. and his final time wearing the blue Chelsea jersey. A true blue Chelsea legend who won a premier league title, 3 fa cups, a league cup and a community shield while with us. Thank you for all the wonderful memories you have given us, Michael.