England star Marc Guehi explains why two Chelsea legends are his role models
England defender Marc Guehi has explained why Chelsea icons Didier Drogba and Thiago Silva's stories of resilience resonate with him. The iconic duo are the Crystal Palace centre-back's two footballing idols.
Guehi was asked about his admiration for Silva and Drogba while away with the Three Lions at Euro 2024. He responded (via Sky Sports):
"I'd say resilience both in their stories growing up, both in what they had to endure in their careers, in any professional career, it's hard to make it to the top. For both of them, that's one thing that stands out."
Guehi, 23, spent one season with Silva, 39, at Chelsea before he left Stamford Bridge for Palace in July 2021. He was still a youngster in development and may have learned a thing or two from the Brazilian star.
Silva encountered testing times during his youth. He was born amongst Rio de Janeiro's favelas (the second largest slum shanty town in Latin America). The former AC Milan and PSG defender used football as an escape from the poverty-stricken life he was initially handed.
The seven-time Ligue 1 champion would become one of Europe's most respected center-backs in history. He's a fan favorite at Chelsea, and he played a crucial role in their 2021 UEFA Champions League triumph.
Drogba, 46, similarly spent his childhood amid poverty in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire. His family relocated to France when he was five. They returned to the Western African country years later but had to escape due to poverty. He lived with his uncle for years until his family reunited when he was 15.
The iconic Ivorian striker became arguably the greatest striker in Chelsea's history. In 381 games, he scored 164 goals and 88 assists, helping the Blues win four Premier League titles.
England's Guehi feels he made the right decision to leave Chelsea for Crystal Palace
Guehi has been potentially England's best performer amid an unconvincing Euro 2024 campaign as a collective. The Palace star was tasked with replacing Harry Maguire, who was ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
The former Blues academy graduate has appeared in all three of the Three Lions' Group C games. He's looked comfortable at the back alongside John Stones, conceding two goals.
Guehi rose through the ranks at Stamford Bridge before deciding to head to Selhurst Park three years ago. He cost the Eagles around £20 million, and he's been a mainstay in their side ever since.
The Abidjan-born defender touched on this in April 2022 and insisted he moved for more first-team opportunities. He said (via The Athletic):
"I thought the decision to leave Chelsea and come to Palace was the right one in order to get that game time and hopefully show what I can do."
Guehi has appeared 111 times for Palace and has consistently been one of the Premier League's most reliable defenders. He reportedly finds himself on Manchester United's radar, but the Eagles' valuation could be too high for the red Devils.