David Raya says Chelsea sold a player who’s a better leader than Rodri

 

Chelsea’s current youth-heavy squad may have plenty of talent, but former player Alvaro Morata could have addressed one area the Blues are still lacking: leadership, as reported by The Chelsea Chronicle.

 

David Raya, Spain’s goalkeeper, has praised Morata as the standout leader in the national team, even ranking him above players like Rodri and Marc Cucurella.

Chelsea’s squad has undergone significant changes in recent years, with a focus on youth.

Aside from Tosin Adarabioyo and Robert Sanchez, few players over the age of 25 have featured regularly in the side, as owner Todd Boehly and his team prioritise a long-term project.

Several potential transfer targets, including Mike Maignan, Ivan Toney, and Victor Osimhen, were linked to Stamford Bridge but never arrived, leaving gaps in both quality and experience.

Morata, who left Chelsea permanently five years ago, has continued to thrive in Europe.

After his time at Stamford Bridge, he moved to Atletico Madrid, then played for Juventus, AC Milan, and Galatasaray.

He now features for Como under Cesc Fabregas.

Despite Chelsea failing to qualify for the Champions League in a recent season, Morata earned a place in the competition’s Team of the Group Stage while at AC Milan, highlighting his ongoing impact at the top level.

Raya’s comments underline the qualities Chelsea may be missing.

“Morata is the biggest leader in our Spain squad,” Raya said, emphasizing his influence over more established names like Rodri.

Leadership, especially in high-pressure matches, is one area where Chelsea’s young squad may still need development.

While experience will naturally come over time, having a calm, guiding presence could have helped the Blues in moments where composure is critical.

Chelsea’s current project prioritizes youth and long-term growth, but Morata’s career trajectory shows the potential value of experienced leadership.

His development across top European clubs suggests he possesses traits that could have supported the young Chelsea squad, both on and off the pitch.

As the Blues continue to integrate promising talent, the absence of proven leaders like Morata remains a talking point.

With Raya’s praise serving as a reminder of what the club might have gained by retaining the Spaniard during his prime.