'Unacceptable': New Chelsea striker Emanuel Emegha 'devastated' by boos from own fans | OneFootball

Dutch forward jeered by unhappy Strasbourg supporters and targeted by banner demanding he gives up captain’s armband

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Emegha was absent from Strasbourg’s matchday squad this weekend through injury, but was targeted by a banner displayed by the club’s ultras which read: “Emegha, pawn of BlueCo. After changing shirt, give back your captain's armband.”

Strasbourg boss Liam Rosenior criticised the fans’ reaction and confirmed post-match that he has no plans to strip Emegha of his captaincy duties, which he assumed this summer after former skipper Habib Diarra joined Sunderland.

"Emanuel Emegha was devastated and so was I,” said the former Hull head coach. “I am very disappointed with what I saw; seeing banners against one of the team's best players last season is unacceptable.

“My players deserve much more, they have an impeccable mindset and do not deserve this treatment.”

Upset: Emegha was booed by Strasbourg fans as he collected an award for player of the month before Sunday’s win over Le Havre in Ligue 1

AFP via Getty Images

Rosenior added: “We are in a pivotal season in which we will play in a European competition, but it seems that a minority is not happy with these performances.

“It won't change anything at all because I remain very proud of my players, and Ema will remain captain as long as he is here. It is still necessary to emphasise that this does not concern everyone, but a minority."

Emegha has become a key figure at Strasbourg since his arrival from Austrian outfit Sturm Graz in 2023. Last season, the centre-forward netted 14 goals and provided three assists in 27 Ligue 1 appearances to help Rosenior’s men qualify for the Conference League.

His pre-contract agreement with Chelsea is the latest in a string of deals between the two BlueCo-owned clubs.

Mike Penders, Kendry Paez and Mamadou Sarr are all currently on loan with the French side, who picked up Ben Chilwell on transfer deadline day, and there are reportedly long-term plans for ex-Brighton forward Julio Enciso to move across the Channel.

Emegha is one of several new recruits already lined up to join Enzo Maresca’s squad next summer, alongside the likes of Sporting winger Geovany Quenda and Corinthians left-back Denner.