FORMER Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah has shared that he would often cry during his journey home from training as a young talent.

The 27-year-old centre-back joined Chelsea when he was just eight years old and made 151 appearances for the club before transferring to Como this summer.

However, Chalobah revealed that he “never truly enjoyed football” during his childhood and faced challenges in the lower age groups at Chelsea.

He spoke of how he was “playing catch-up” with Chelsea youth talents such as Mason Mount and Declan Rice, who had entered the academy years before him.

In an interview with the Athletic, he explained: “At Chelsea, I shared a group with Declan Rice and Mason Mount.

“They had been playing since they were five. I was always trying to catch up. It was incredibly tough.

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“After those sessions, I would often cry in the back of the scout’s car, Ray [Rembridge], who brought me to Chelsea.

“I’d express that I could not continue anymore. Ray provided me with reassurance and support daily and instilled a solid work ethic in me.

“He reminded me that nothing worthwhile comes easily, and those words have stuck with me.”

The England international mentioned that he got involved in football after watching his brother play but felt he lacked “natural talent.”

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He continued: “My brother (Nathaniel, who is currently at Charlton Athletic) had exceptional talent, so he would always play football in the park.

“I never really had a passion for football. I would observe him while engaging in typical childhood activities.

“Fulham noticed my brother and invited him to join. I thought, ‘Why not give football a try and see where it leads?’

“I didn’t have that innate ability; I simply watched my brother and learned from what he did.”

Chalobah created many cherished memories with his childhood club after spending time on loan at Ipswich, Huddersfield, Lorient, and Crystal Palace.

Last season, he was a regular feature for the Blues, making a total of 47 appearances and scoring three goals.

Chalobah collected five trophies during his time with Chelsea, including the Club World Cup and UEFA Conference League title in the previous season.

Como signed him for a fee of approximately £31 million after manager Cesc Fabregas contacted him to share his vision for the team.

Yet, he emphasized that leaving Chelsea was a “difficult” choice, stating that the club will always hold immense significance for him.

Chalobah has participated in eight matches for Como to date, starting six in Serie A.