Chelsea have emerged as one of the best destinations for world-class talents over the years. A number of legends have adorned the Royal Blue jersey and found success with the club, winning multiple trophies along the way.
While a significant number of players have spent their whole or the majority of their career at Stamford Bridge, some have moved to other clubs in their prime as well to try out new challenges. Eden Hazard, Antonio Rudiger, and Arjen Robben are among many who fall under this category.
Nevertheless, Gianluigi Buffon is someone who needs little introduction. The Italian legend is a one-time World Cup winner and a 10-time Serie A champion. He recently made his pick for the best goalkeeper in the world, and Chelsea fans may have a bitter-sweet moment hearing the name.
Buffon has spoken to Sports Illustrated and stated:
"It’s enjoyable to watch Courtois because, in my opinion, he’s another goalkeeper who shows you something special in the goal."
Buffon picks player Chelsea let go among the best in the world
Courtois left Chelsea to join Real Madrid in the summer of 2018 for a fee of €35 million. Since then, the 33-year-old has been phenomenal for the Spanish giants, having already won various major trophies, including multiple Champions League trophies with the club.
Now, coming back to Chelsea, the Blues are yet to find a truly reliable goalkeeper since the Belgian left. Robert Sanchez is no doubt good, but he has yet to prove his quality on a consistent basis.
Meanwhile, Chelsea youngster Mike Penders is one of the players to keep an eye on. Surely, the 20-year-old still needs to develop a lot and it is still too early to tell. However, he possesses incredible talent and is showing promise. He is even seen as the next Courtois by many in Belgian footballing circles. He is currently on loan at Strasbourg and only time will tell if he can live up to expectations.