Chelsea have bought in ex-rugby league star Willie Isa as a player support and development officer – a month after he hung up his boots whilst playing at the Wigan Warriors
Ex-rugby league star Willie Isa has joined Chelsea – just a month after retiring from his previous sport.
Isa sent shockwaves through the Super League when he hung up his boots, just after signing a new deal with the Wigan Warriors – the current Super League champions. The Samoan claimed he was departing to “pursue a new opportunity” and will now work with the Blues.
Isa will swap sports to become player support and development officer at Stamford Bridge, where he will have a broad remit, reports the Daily Mail.
The 36-year-old will work closely with the head of men’s operations and welfare Kevin Campello. His role will seem him largely dedicated to player co-ordination around training and match days.
Isa won three Super League titles and a World Club Challenge during his time Wigan and earned plaudits for for his leadership skills.
Only last month the former Wigan star said: “The decision has not been easy and somewhat unexpected, but it is a blessing that I have been offered an opportunity to pursue. For me to take this opportunity, I have made the choice to end my professional career with immediate effect.”
When his retirement was confirmed Wigan boss Matt Peet said: “His relentless commitment to the team and his ability to inspire those around him have made a huge impact on this group over the last decade. Willie’s influence extends far beyond his performances; he has been a role model for younger players and a true ambassador for our values.”
Chelsea will hope to tap into Isa’s winning mindset with the team lacking in experience. The Blues have overseen a huge player overhaul since Todd Boehly and Clearlake purchased the club. This season they began well but have fallen away in recent months and Isa will hope his presence can have a positive impact.
One of his former coaches at Wigan, Adrian Lam, once said: “Willie’s the ultimate professional in every part of his preparation. He’s a really popular member of the group – he’s like a father to some of them – and for me he’s that player you need in your front line with you going to war.”
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