Michael Emenalo Resigns as Chelsea's Technical Director

Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo resigned from his position at Stamford Bridge, the club announced on Monday.

The Telegraph's Matt Law first reported on Monday that Emenalo left the club after 10 years.

"This has been a very difficult decision to make, but one I believe is right for both myself and my family, and the club," Emenalo said. "I have had the privilege to work alongside some of the most talented people in the world of sport over the past 10 years, and I will depart incredibly proud of the achievements we have made. I wish Chelsea every success and look forward to following the club's future triumphs from afar."

Aaron Flanagan of Mirror noted "a potential role at Monaco in a similar capacity set to be his destination."

Manager Antonio Conte also spoke on Emenalo's departure: "I am very sorry to see Michael leave Chelsea, and I would like to thank him for all his help and support since I arrived at this club. I have enjoyed working with him very much, we celebrated a Premier League title together in May, and I wish him the very best for the future."

His departure is said to be a "huge blow" to owner Roman Abramovich, as Emenalo was "among the few people he trusts and takes advice from." 

Goal's Nizaar Kinsella supplied more details:

Emenalo is said to have been a "vital element" at Chelsea under the Russian, having overseen the recruitment of stars such as Eden Hazard, Thibaut Courtois and Cesar Azpilicueta as well as the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, whose departures "frustrated" the former Nigeria international.

He was also a supporter of Conte after playing a role in his appointment, though according to Law's sources, he did "not wish to engage in a three-way power battle with Conte and [director Marina] Granovskaia who are known not to see eye to eye," after a disappointing summer transfer window.

According to ESPN FC's Liam Twomey, it is unknown what impact his departure will have on the way Chelsea make decisions as a club and in the transfer market.

Although the 46-year-old has no prior management experience, he could potentially follow a path into coaching after earning his UEFA Pro Licence in the summer.