To get news directly on the go, download the Real Chelsea Fans App.

Chelsea legend Claude Makelele has returned to Chelsea as a technical mentor to our young players.

Makelele will work closely with individual Academy players, tracking technical performances in both training and matches as they reach a critical point in their professional development.

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia welcomed the legend back to the club while also admitting Makelele will be a valuable asset to both our Academy and first-team coaching staff.

Granovskaia told Chelsea’s official website: “We are very pleased to welcome Claude back to Chelsea, where he made such an impact during five excellent years as a player.

“His long and successful career on the field, added to his winning mentality and experience as a coach in recent years, make him the ideal person to pass on his expertise to our talented youngsters. He will be a valuable asset to both our Academy and first-team coaching staff.”

Makelele also admitted he’s pleased to be back home.

Makelele said: “I am very happy to come back home. This club gave me a lot and now I want to give back and help the young Chelsea players dreaming of a career in football. I want to use all my experience to help them become professionals in every aspect and I am looking forward to getting started.”