Chelsea full-back Chavarria says the Premier League is “the best league in the world” and believes its speed and physicality are ideally suited to his attacking approach.
The 24-year-old, who joined Chelsea from Rayo Vallecano this summer, has made his debut after taking an unconventional route from Spanish fourth-tier football to Stamford Bridge.
Born in Figueres, the Catalan town also known as the birthplace of surrealist artist Salvador Dali, Chavarria made his senior debut for his hometown club at 18. He did not reach LaLiga until he was 24, before spending four seasons with Rayo Vallecano and making 125 appearances.
His performances as an energetic, attack-minded full-back led to the biggest transfer of his career. He made his Chelsea debut away at Fulham in August and then started the Carabao Cup win over Luton Town.
“It’s incredible,” Chavarria told Chelsea’s official website. “Coming to this great club, my team-mates have given me a warm welcome. I’m very happy with everything, and the staff have also shown me a lot of care.”
He added: “There are many top players here, they are very competitive and have a strong mentality. I like that because I can learn from it. It’s a pleasure to play with such players, and playing alongside the best helps you improve.”
Settling into England
Chavarria has received help from Chelsea team-mate Caicedo, who has also become his English teacher. The Spanish defender attends lessons each week and hopes to be fluent by the end of the season.
“Moi has been with me all the time and is now teaching me English because I need to learn,” he said.
He has also begun exploring London with family and friends, visiting Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the London Eye. He currently lives close to Chelsea’s Cobham training ground, balancing London’s activity with the quieter surroundings of Surrey.
The defender believes the Premier League’s intensity matches his own strengths.
“I think the Premier League right now is the best league in the world,” he said. “It’s fast-paced, high-quality, and the players are all excellent. I think it’s the best league for my style of play because I’m very dynamic, I like to run between both boxes, and I like to give my all for the team.”
“ LaLiga is more structured and tactical, while here, players have stronger individual abilities and there’s more physical contact. The Premier League is harder because every team has excellent players. Even teams at the bottom of the league can beat those at the top. You have to be at your best against top players; here, if you lose concentration, you can lose the game in an instant. You always have to stay focused.”
Alonso influence
Chavarria is now working under Xavi Alonso, whose own senior career began outside Spain’s top division with Real Sociedad B before he went on to win the World Cup and European Championship.
“Xavi is one of the best coaches in the world right now,” said Chavarria. “I’ve learned a lot, and I know he wants to help me. I’m learning and adapting very well. I feel like I can do even more and continue to improve.”
“He wants me to be dynamic in both attack and defence. We also have many ways to approach games. I think this is a very complete team.”
Chavarria said playing at Stamford Bridge had fulfilled a childhood dream.
“This stadium is incredible. I watched many games on TV when I was young, and I always remembered those images. Now I say, ‘Wow, I’m here.’ You can really feel the energy and atmosphere.”
His ambitions are to win silverware, help Chelsea qualify for the Champions League and eventually earn a Spain call-up.
“I want to win trophies, that’s my goal. I also hope to qualify for the Champions League. Chelsea is one of the best clubs in the world and should win a trophy and play in the Champions League every year,” he said.
“First, to win a trophy, then to get into the national team. But for me, the most important thing is the club.”
From Figueres to Olot, Zaragoza and Rayo Vallecano, Chavarria’s career has been built on patience and persistence. “I think we will bring victories, and the fans will be happy to win some trophies,” he said.
