Axel Disasi has opened up about the difficult period he endured at Chelsea earlier this season, admitting it was a challenging time before his move to West Ham United reignited his campaign.
The French defender found himself frozen out at Stamford Bridge during the first half of the season after being left out of Chelsea’s Premier League squad.
As a result, he did not feature in a competitive match until February 7, shortly after joining West Ham on loan.
Reflecting on the frustrating spell away from the pitch, Disasi admitted the experience tested his patience and professionalism.
“If I say everything, maybe I will get into trouble, but it was tough. It was very tough to be watching every single week, every single weekend the games on the TV,” he said, speaking after West Ham progressed to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup with a penalty shootout victory over Brentford.
“I was just working, waiting for my time and that’s why now I’m just enjoying because I know what it feels like to be in front of the TV and not on the pitch.
“I learned to be more patient, to stay professional, even if the circumstances were hard. I had the help of my family and they helped me a lot to stay in good shape.
“I try to enjoy every moment because I know it’s not guaranteed.”
Since arriving at the London Stadium, the 27-year-old has quickly re-established himself, featuring seven times across all competitions.
Meanwhile, his defensive contributions have been crucial, helping the Hammers keep three clean sheets in their last five league matches.
“At the moment, I’m on the pitch, it’s very nice,” he added.
“All the players want to be on the pitch. Everyone knows, before, it was not the case for me, but I’m just enjoying being on the pitch.
“Here, as well, I find a very friendly atmosphere and I really enjoy it.
“He [Nuno Espirito Santo] just convinced me by playing me. It’s this I needed.
“Especially to play in my position, because it’s something I missed last season when I was playing out of position. He lets me express myself and I’m happy for that and I hope I will keep going like this.”
Despite his impressive start in East London, Disasi insists he is not yet thinking about his long-term future beyond the current campaign.
“There’s still nine games to go! I don’t want to think about this for the moment, I just want to enjoy my time.”
The centre-back also addressed his ambitions with the France national football team, particularly with another FIFA World Cup on the horizon.
“I played the last one (in 2022). Every player wants to play at the World Cup, but as life has taught me in the first part of the season, you never know what can happen. Every weekend I play hard to be in the best position, but life sometimes gives you some surprises.”
With renewed confidence and regular minutes on the pitch, Disasi appears determined to make the most of his opportunity at West Ham as the season enters its decisive phase.
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