Marc Keller is the president of French club RC Strasbourg. He has strongly pushed back against claims that his team is simply a “feeder club” for Chelsea. Both clubs share the same owner, the BlueCo consortium, which has led to many questions about their relationship.
A ‘Younger Brother’ Connection
Keller argues that the term “feeder club” is wrong. He told the BBC that a feeder club would send three, four, or five players to the parent club every season. Instead, he described the bond as a “younger brother relationship.” He stressed that both clubs try to help each other within the same “family.”
One Player Per Year
Keller admitted that it is possible for one player per year to be good enough to make the jump to Chelsea. For example, striker Emanuel Emegha has already agreed to move to London next summer. However, Keller stressed that Strasbourg is still focused on its own growth and ambition. He said their goal is to develop players who are wanted by other top European clubs, not just Chelsea.
Benefits of the Partnership
Keller highlighted the positives of the multi-club ownership (MCO) model. He said that the partnership allows Strasbourg to bring in talented young players, like Chelsea loanees. The kind of players they could never have signed on their own. He views the project as a smart way to use more financial power to build quality at Strasbourg.
Author’s Insight
Keller’s words show the sensitive nature of the multi-club model. While he is trying to protect Strasbourg’s pride, the benefits for Chelsea are obvious—they get a high-level league for player development. The key will be keeping a balance. If Strasbourg continues to improve on the field, which they have been doing, and still makes smart player sales to other clubs, the fans will be easier to convince. For now, it is a relationship built on hope and careful management.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
