Tiemoue Bakayoko explains reason behind Chelsea exit

France international Tiemoue Bakayoko has said that the Chelsea hierarchy were behind his temporary departure to AC Milan during the previous summer transfer window.

The midfielder endured a difficult debut season with the Blues last term, and he was thereafter deemed surplus to requirements under new boss Maurizio Sarri before he made the loan move to Milan.

Speaking to France Football, Bakayoko said that the board were involved in his exit more than Sarri after the Italian decided to pursue the services of Jorginho to fill the void.

"I think it came from above. The club weren't doing well, wanted change, and I was a part of it. Sarri arrived, and he was told that's how things were. He also brought in his midfielder," he said.

Bakayoko had a relatively slow beginning with Milan earlier this season but he has been ever-present since the start of October with consistent performances from the centre of the park.

The Rossoneri have the option to sign him permanently for £35m in the summer but the deal may be dependent on their qualification for next season's Champions League.