Callum Hudson-Odoi’s decision to transfer to Nottingham Forest from Chelsea was driven by his desire for more regular first-team football.
Nottingham Forest’s latest acquisition, Callum Hudson-Odoi, has opened up about his decision to make the move away from Chelsea during the recent summer transfer window.
The 22-year-old winger had faced significant challenges in securing playing time at Stamford Bridge, and his loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen last season did not yield the expected results, ultimately leading him to opt for a permanent departure from Chelsea.
Hudson-Odoi, a product of Chelsea’s renowned academy, had once appeared poised for a promising future. However, his career trajectory has taken an unexpected turn in recent years. With aspirations for a fresh start, the England international now aims to revive his career at Nottingham Forest, where he anticipates regular first-team action.
In an interview with The Telegraph , Hudson-Odoi expressed the emotional aspect of leaving Chelsea, a club that had been his home for a significant period. He disclosed that the decision to part ways was not without its difficulties, despite mutual discussions. Ultimately, he emphasized that the move was predominantly his choice, guided by the pursuit of more playing time.
“Chelsea has been my home for a very long time and knowing it was time to go was emotional,” he told the Telegraph.
“It was difficult, we had conversations but I thought it was best if I leave. It was a mutual agreement, but I’d say it was more my decision.
“Forest is the right place for me to excel in my football, and do more than I probably could at Chelsea. I want to be playing as much as possible.”
Hudson-Odoi firmly believes that Nottingham Forest is the ideal environment for him to flourish in his footballing journey, possibly exceeding what he could achieve at Chelsea. His primary objective is to feature regularly on the pitch and contribute significantly to his new club.
The role of Nottingham Forest’s manager, Steve Cooper, emerged as a critical factor in Hudson-Odoi’s decision-making process. He credited Cooper for his ability to understand players both on and off the pitch.
“There were a lot of different places I could have ended up at, but once ‘Coops’ made the call my head was straight here,” he said.
“He definitely brought the best out of me with England. The big thing about him is how he understands players, on and off the pitch.
“He’s always making sure that you’re mentally right and comfortable, and free in what you do.”
The transfer saga saw Hudson-Odoi consider various destinations, but ultimately, the call from Cooper solidified his decision to join Nottingham Forest. His previous experience with Cooper during their time together with the England national team undoubtedly played a role in this choice, with Hudson-Odoi feeling that Cooper brings out the best in him.
As the young talent embarks on this new chapter in his career, Nottingham Forest supporters will eagerly anticipate witnessing his revival under the guidance of Steve Cooper, with hopes of his contributions propelling the club to greater success.