Conor Gallagher has sparked outrage among Chelsea supporters after completing a shock move to rivals Tottenham, confirmed on Wednesday, just 18 months after leaving Stamford Bridge.
Gallagher joined Chelsea as a six-year-old and spent 13 years rising through the club’s academy, gaining experience on loan at Charlton, Swansea, West Brom and Crystal Palace. His standout performances at Palace earned him a Chelsea first-team debut in August 2022, and he quickly became a key player, making 45 appearances in his breakthrough season.
He remained an important figure during the 2023–24 campaign and even captained the side when Reece James and Ben Chilwell were sidelined. However, ahead of last season, new boss Enzo Maresca informed Gallagher he was no longer part of his plans. Chelsea subsequently sold him to Atletico Madrid in August 2024.
After a mixed spell in Spain, where he made just four La Liga starts under Diego Simeone, Gallagher has now returned to the Premier League — but in the colours of Chelsea’s London rivals. Despite interest from Manchester United and a late push from Aston Villa, the 25-year-old chose Tottenham, who moved quickly to secure his signature.
Spurs confirmed Gallagher’s arrival on a five-and-a-half-year contract, with reports suggesting Atletico received around £34.7 million. Speaking after the move, the England international said he was “so happy and excited” to join Tottenham and is eager to “create special moments and memories” with the club.
The transfer has not gone down well with Chelsea fans. Once celebrated as a homegrown success story, Gallagher’s switch to Spurs has been seen by many as a betrayal. Supporters who once praised his commitment and leadership have taken to social media to vent their anger, with some branding him a “snake” and calling for hostile receptions when he returns to Stamford Bridge.
What was once affection for a Chelsea academy graduate has now turned into frustration and resentment, as Gallagher prepares to begin a new chapter with one of the club’s fiercest rivals.
