In Photos: Chelsea FC defender Axel Disasi throws ceremonial first pitch at LoanDepot Park in Marlins gear
Considered one of the Premier League's rising stars, Axel Disasi recently made an appearance stateside. On Monday night, the Chelsea FC center-back threw the ceremonial first pitch ahead of the Marlins vs. Cardinals game at LoanDepot Park, Miami.
Last summer, the 26-year-old Frenchman made headlines when it was announced that he would be signing a contract with Chelsea FC for £38.5 million ($48.9 million) over six years.
Although Chelsea FC won its last five games of the Premier League season, it was ultimately not enough. The club finished sixth on the table when the season wrapped up on May 19. Now, Axel Disasi is enjoying his offseason.
Disasi's appearance in Miami came before the Marlins' fixture against the St. Louis Cardinals, which they lost 7-6. Miami has been one of the least successful teams in MLB this season, but Disasi was happy to accept his gift, a custom-made Marlins jersey.
In addition to his league play, Disasi has also represented France at the international level. Last December, he was part of the France national team that lost to Lionel Messi's Argentina. Added to the French roster to replace Presnel Kimpembe, Disasi became the first French international debutant during a World Cup since 1966.
"Axel Disasi's third goal of the season." #CFC #BreChe
Formerly a member of AFC Monaco, Disasi was transferred from Reims for €13 million. Despite signing a five-year contract with Monaco in 2020, his early move to Chelsea FC speaks volumes about how seriously this young talent is taken by some of the top soccer clubs in the world.
Axel Disasi takes American trip after successful first season with Chelsea FC
After the soccer season ended less than a month ago, Disasi's appearance at the Miami Marlins game showed the star in a more laid-back mood than usual. This past season, Axel Disasi had two goals and five clean sheets. He told French outlet Telefoot:
“I am here to mark my territory, to continue my progression and obviously to impose myself. For a first season, I am pretty satisfied."
With at least five more years to go in a Chelsea kit, Disasi's brand and image are likely to become even more well-known as time goes by.