Mamadou Sarr praises Liam Rosenior as Chelsea recall proves smooth

Mamadou Sarr has returned to Chelsea FC after a mid-season recall from his loan at RC Strasbourg Alsace, praising coach Liam Rosenior for making his transition back “easy.”

The 20-year-old defender, signed by Chelsea before being immediately loaned out to gain first-team experience, spent only half a season in Alsace before the London club brought him back during the winter transfer window.

Despite the potential challenges of a mid-season return, Sarr says his previous work with Rosenior has helped him integrate seamlessly into Stamford Bridge’s environment.

“It was easy because I know the guys and everyone. So yes, the return was simple,” Sarr told Chelsea’s media, in an interview relayed by Wiw Sport.

He highlighted the tactical familiarity he already shares with Rosenior: “I know Liam and he knows me. I know how we train. I know how we prepare for a match. I know him very well. I think he’s an excellent coach.”

Sarr’s brief spell in France was not without responsibility. At Strasbourg, he was entrusted with the vice-captain’s armband, a role he credits with accelerating his development.

“I think I’ve improved a lot thanks to my role as vice-captain. It was an added responsibility,” he said. The defender, who describes himself as calm and reserved, has learned to lead by example: “It’s through my attitude that I want to pass on my knowledge to the guys.”

The Senegalese international now hopes to apply the leadership and maturity gained in Alsace within Chelsea’s larger squad.

His early impressions suggest that the combination of familiar coaching and new experience has prepared him to contribute immediately at the top level, easing what could have been a difficult mid-season adjustment.

Sarr’s return underscores Chelsea’s ongoing strategy of integrating young talent while relying on trusted coaching relationships to ensure smooth transitions for players returning from loan spells.