Chelsea struggles
Emerson, a 24-year-old left-back, made the move to Stamford Bridge in January of last year, from AS Roma.
However, the Brazilian-born Italian’s Chelsea stint subsequently got off to a rocky start, to say the least.
Over the course of his first 12 months with the Blues, Emerson managed a measly 3 Premier League starts, after failing to displace Marcos Alonso in the plans of either Antonio Conte or Maurizio Sarri.
As such, the stopper was heavily-linked with a return to Serie A during the winter transfer window.
The likes of Juventus and Inter Milan were both named as sides expressing a keen interest in the South American’s services.
‘Future is in London’
The closing months of the season, however, proved a very different story.
After being handed the chance to impress during an extended run of appearances by Maurizio Sarri, Emerson seized his opportunity with both hands.
The twice-capped Italian international went on to push Marcos Alonso frequently to the bench, impressing both defensively and with his constant bursts forward.
DUBLIN, IRELAND – AUGUST 01: Emerson Palmieri of Chelsea during the Pre-season friendly International Champions Cup game between Arsenal and Chelsea at Aviva stadium on August 1, 2018 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
Emerson’s influence was most-keenly felt in the Europa League, where the 24-year-old played the full 90 minutes in both of the Blues’ semi-final meetings with Eintracht Frankfurt, as well as the club’s showpiece victory over Arsenal last night.
The Santos youth product even set up Olivier Giroud’s opener with a pinpoint delivery.
And, as confirmed by agent Leonardo Cornacini this evening, Emerson’s upturn in fortunes over the last couple of months appear to have decided his future, with the full-back set to remain at Stamford Bridge into next season and beyond:
‘He still has years left on his contract.’
‘He’s happy and the club are happy to keep him. We’re certain that his future is in London.’