Emerson Palmieri explains reasons for rejecting Chelsea recall

Emerson Palmieri has revealed that he rejected the chance to return to Chelsea during the January transfer window as he "promised" Lyon that he would finish the season at the Ligue 1 club.

The 27-year-old has been an important player for Lyon during the 2021-22 campaign, making 23 appearances in all competitions, having joined the French side on loan last June.

Emerson was linked with a return to Stamford Bridge during the winter window, with the Blues losing Ben Chilwell for the remainder of the campaign with a serious knee injury.

However, the defender has said that a 'promise' to Lyon meant that he was not prepared to cut his loan spell short in the middle of the season.

"I did not return to Chelsea because I promised Juninho that I would stay for a season. I am a man of my word. I like being in Lyon, I want to be here. For next season, hard to say because depends on the clubs but I'm happy here," Emerson told reporters.

The Italy international, who still has more than two years left to run on his contract at Chelsea, has made 71 appearances for the Blues since arriving from Roma.