Chelsea cruised into the FA Cup fourth round with a 4-0 victory against Hull City on Friday, as 20-year-old Senegalese defender Mamadou Sarr delivered an impressive debut as a starter.
Sarr, who joined Chelsea in the summer of 2025, had only briefly featured for the Blues prior to this match—an eight-minute appearance against Espérance Sportive de Tunis during the Club World Cup.
After a loan spell at Racing Club Strasbourg Alsace, where he was a key player and purchased for €20 million, Chelsea recalled the young centre-back following managerial changes, with Liam Rosenior taking over from Enzo Maresca.
The Olympique Lyonnais academy product did not disappoint.
Facing a Championship side in a dominant Chelsea performance, Sarr demonstrated composure, reading of the game, and aerial strength.
He intercepted several dangerous balls, won his duels, and helped maintain a clean sheet, while also showing his ability to initiate attacks with precise long passes.
His through ball to Estêvão in the 16th minute exemplified his vision and technical skill.
Liam Rosenior, who previously worked with Sarr at Strasbourg, praised his protégé’s adaptation and maturity.
“Mamadou lived up to my expectations,” he said. “I know him very well. I hope he adapts to the climate more quickly because he understands my style of play, and he already proved that today.”
Sarr’s performance has sparked optimism among Chelsea supporters, many of whom had questioned his lack of opportunities under Maresca.
The young defender’s blend of defensive solidity, accurate distribution, and ability to drive play forward suggests he could become a central figure in the Blues’ backline.
With Chelsea showing their attacking depth and defensive resilience in this FA Cup tie, Sarr’s emergence provides the club with another promising option as they compete on multiple fronts this season.
