Marcus Bettinelli has left Chelsea today, on “Mini Transfer Deadline Day”, and has joined Manchester City, where he’s signed just a one-year contract. There’s reportedly only a “nominal transfer fee” involved, as Betts also had one year left on his Chelsea contract.
The 33-year-old, who is already working on his coaching badges, is expected to join City in a role similar to what he’s fulfilled at Chelsea over the past four years: third-choice goalkeeper, training ground leader, dressing room mentor — not necessarily in that order of importance. City have highlighted his “experience and mentality” in their announcement.
“It’s an honour to sign for City. I have admired from afar what this Club have achieved since Pep Guardiola arrived and now I am excited to be a part of building on that success. I can’t wait to work with Guardiola, Xabi Mancisidor and the excellent goalkeepers already here and see their methods up close. Hopefully I can contribute in training, the dressing room and on the pitch as we look to win more silverware over the next year.”
-Marcus Bettinelli; source: Manchester City FC
Betts leaves Chelsea with just one appearance in his four seasons since joining on a free transfer from Fulham, but he made his impact not just on the football pitch. Just the other week, he was named our PFA Community Champion for the season.
“It’s been an absolute honour to represent this fantastic club for the last 4 years. I have Loved every minute of it and wishing the boys and the staff and the fans nothing but success going forward been a pleasure”
-Marcus Bettinelli; source: Instagram
Farewell, Betts!