Valentín Barco believes his move from playing as an attacking left-back to central midfielder has transformed his career and earned him a move to Chelsea.
Barco, 22, returned to the Premier League this summer with Chelsea signing the Argentina international for a reported €40 million ($47m) from Strasbourg.
"I think the change of position changed my life," Barco said of playing in midfield for Strasbourg having previously had a left-back role.
"It helped me enormously to get back into playing, to be an important part of the team, to return to the Argentina national team, to go to the World Cup, and now to be able to return to the Premier League."
Barco moved to Strasbourg -- initially on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion-- in January 2025 and made a total of 58 appearances, providing three goals and 11 assists.
"I feel comfortable playing in midfield," he said. "I love it because you get on the ball a lot, and that way you control the game and set the pace, so I think that period was very important for my career and my life."
Returning to the Premier League was a priority for Barco, who made only seven appearances during his time at Brighton, the club he joined in January 2024 from Boca Juniors.
He signed a long-term contract with Chelsea and is now working under Xabi Alonso, widely regarded as one of best midfielders of his generation.
"I'm really happy to be here, to be playing for this club," Barco said. "It's massive, so my family and I are delighted, and this was a big step towards returning to the Premier League.
"I chose Chelsea because it's one of the best clubs in the world, so if Chelsea come calling, you have to say yes. I had a few chats with Xabi Alonso and, for me, he's one of the best in the world -- he was a top player himself.
"He was one of the best players in this position and now he's one of the most outstanding managers."
