Acknowledging the rapid rise of the versatile defender, Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has shared that he acted as a sounding board for Jorrel Hato before his move from Ajax to Chelsea.
Jorrel Hato debut season at Chelsea has been a story of patient integration. Since his £38 million summer move from Ajax, the 20-year-old has made 16 Premier League appearances, primarily serving as a versatile defensive option when needed.
He spent much of the first half of the campaign as a substitute under Enzo Maresca, but his importance has increased since Rosenior’s January arrival. Hato scored his first Chelsea goal during Rosenior’s first game, a 5-1 FA Cup victory over Charlton.
Frequently deployed at left-back but comfortable shifting to centre-half, he’s enjoyed 90 minutes in the last two Premier League games, due to an injury to Trevoh Chalobah.
And he was even given a call-up to the Netherlands national team, despite a bit of an up and down season.
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Ronald Koeman appreciates Jorrel Hato’s development
In quotes shared by Ajax 1, Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman justified his decision to call up Jorrel Hato, as well as bringing up a call between the pair prior to his move to Chelsea.
“He also called me when he could make the transfer to Chelsea. Then it’s about whether you are ready for it. Is it the step where you are going to play.
“He is developing tremendously and is only 20 years old. He is there for a reason, because he plays his matches at Chelsea.”
Hato was slammed by Alan Shearer for his last display for Chelsea against Everton, but on the whole he has shown there’s a player there, it’s just about consistency now.
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Ronald Koeman admits that Jorrel Hato didn’t even have to call him
Koeman emphasised during the press conference that it is not mandatory to call him, but Hato decided to do it anyway.
Clearly the defender has his international aspirations in mind, checking a move to Chelsea, even if he may not play as much, would damage his chances.
“It’s not an obligation. It’s not like I tell players when you have a chance to change clubs that they have to call me. But they call and I think it makes sense. It’s about playing time and then I give advice. The advice is often followed.”
With Chalobah returning after the upcoming Manchester games, it’s vitally important that Hato stakes his claim.
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