Former Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell has been enjoying his time playing for RC Strasbourg in Ligue 1 since his move away from London. Despite his extensive injuries, the 28 year-old won the UEFA Champions League against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the 20/21 season with the West Londoners as a key component in former manager Thomas Tuchel’s system.
Before being named vice-captain for the Blues, he also clinched the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup (formerly FIFA Club World Cup) in 2021 and 2022, respectively. He was a fan favourite for the then Champions of Europe and was in contention for the first-choice left-back role for Gareth Southgate in the England national team.
However, his career took an unexpected turn under new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca who informed the former Leicester player that he was not in his plans for the upcoming 24/25 season. Chilwell then moved to Crystal Palace on a loan where he won the FA Cup with the Eagles against Manchester City.
Ahead of the 25/26 campaign, the England international accepted a move to Strasbourg in the French first division, a club that, like Chelsea, operates under the ownership of BlueCo.
Chilwell has made 8 appearances for ‘Le Racing’ so far and is seen as a respectable figure in the squad by his fellow peers. According to BlueCo news aggregator BlueCo Extra, the Englishman has quickly earned the nickname ‘Super Dad’ at Strasbourg which is a reflection of his leadership and presence both on and off the pitch.
The England international has become one of the most vocal figures in the squad, frequently engaging with referees and taking charge in organizing his teammates throughout games.
During Strasbourg’s narrow 2-1 defeat to Marseille at home, Chilwell’s influence was evident. Always energetic on the left flank, he directed the centre-backs to tweak their build-up shapes. His gestures and shouts served as a steady guide for a young Strasbourg side still adjusting to their new system.
Ben Chilwell is #Strasbourg “Super Dad”. He is vocal & respected by referees on the field, guiding his teammates through constant communication and gestures.
— 💥 BlueCo Xtra® (@Bluecoxtra) November 10, 2025
During the match against Marseille (1–2), he was animated, signaling to CBs to adjust their build-up or stretch the play. pic.twitter.com/344yJaM9LY
Beyond his defensive duties, Chilwell’s communication has brought structure and composure to Strasbourg’s play. His Premier League experience shows in moments of pressure.
In a relatively youthful squad, Chilwell’s maturity, experience and game intelligence have made him a natural leader, as he continues to shine in a new environment.
Ever since his move to France, he has played more minutes for Strasbourg than he did across the 24/25 campaign for both Chelsea and Crystal Palace combined.
Ben Chilwell smiling again. things you love to see 😌💙pic.twitter.com/1nTx90g06X
— BIGYARO (@biggyaro_) November 10, 2025
Under manager, Liam Rosenoir, the 28 year-old immediately became a regular starter. The 2016 Premier League champion with Leicester, who has primarily operated as a fullback on the left flank for most of his career, was seen being used as a centre-back in Rosenoir’s signature 3-4-2-1 system.
His most recent and notable performance came in a league match against Lille at the State de la Meinau, where he featured as a left-wingback (LWB). Chilwell won 100% of his ground duels and made 3 clearances while being unable to dispossess as he kept a clean sheet, earning him a rating of 7.3 as he played the full length of the match.
From struggling to find a club in the first half of the 24/25 campaign, it’s safe to say that Chilwell has finally found a place where he is truly valued and trusted to lead both on and off the pitch.
