Michael Emenalo


Michael Emenalo is a Nigerian retired footballer who played as a left back, he is the former director of football of Chelsea F.C and AS Monaco FC

Playing Career

Emenalo began his career in his native country, Nigeria before moving to play in the United States for Boston University from 1986 to 1989. While there, he played for Molenbeek in Belgium, Eintracht Trier in Germany and Notts County F.C in England before going back to the US. Emenalo was part of the original allocated players for Major League Soccer and spent two seasons with the San Jose Clash. After that, he played with Lleida in Spain and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel.
Emenalo won 14 caps for Nigeria and played in the 1994 FIFA World Cup, missing the first game through injury but then, played against Argentina and Greece before Nigeria was knocked out by Italy.

Technical Director

He joined Chelsea when former manager Avram Grant was in charge in 2007. After the departure of Ray Wilkins, Emenalo was promoted from his position as chief scout to assistant first team coach on 18 November 2010. On 8 July 2011, Chelsea appointed Emenalo as Technical Director of the club.He went on to totally restructure the club's academy, scouting, loan and women's team setups. He is credited as a key figure behind the club's success having overseen the scouting and transfers of key players including: Juan Mata, Thibout Coutois Kevin De Bryne, Mo Salah N'Golo Kanté, Eden Hazard, and Cesc Fàbregas.
On 10 June 2013, he formally requested that his contract be terminated to facilitate the return of José Mourinho. His request for termination was denied.
On 6 November 2017, he resigned as technical director of the club.
On 27 November 2017, Emenalo joined Monaco as its sporting director.
On 12 August 2019, Emenalo left Monaco by mutual consent.

Honours

Michael Emenalo is one of the most decorated executives in football and a key part of Chelsea F.C's success during the modern era.
Chelsea F.C

National competitions

League titles