Chelsea’s decision to sign Argentina international Valentin Barco has provoked a strong reaction from England supporters, who have not forgotten his involvement in a heated exchange between the two nations at the World Cup.
The Premier League club confirmed on Sunday that Barco had joined from Strasbourg on a contract running until 2033.
“Chelsea Football Club is pleased to confirm the signing of Argentina international Valentin Barco from Strasbourg,” the club said in an official statement.
The 22-year-old midfielder is already a familiar and unpopular figure among many England fans because of his role in the confrontation between the teams during the tournament.
Barco ran on to the pitch to celebrate Argentina’s 2-1 winning goal in the World Cup semi-final, doing so in front of England’s players. His actions led to an angry response after the match, when Jude Bellingham slapped him on the head before the pair became involved in a heated argument on the pitch.
Players from both sides intervened as tensions escalated.
Despite the controversy surrounding Barco, Chelsea proceeded with the deal and completed the signing during the current summer transfer window. The move has angered a large section of England supporters, many of whom also follow Chelsea.
The reaction on social media suggested that some fans would have preferred the club to pursue alternative targets. Barco’s previous conduct has made him a particularly provocative addition for supporters who remember the World Cup incident.
One fan wrote: “He’ll get booed at every ground away from home in the country, hope he’s ready for that.”
Another posted: “Thanks, you’ve ruined my weekend now.”
A third supporter called for the midfielder to be “loaned out immediately”, while another simply said: “Sell him.”
A further reaction described the transfer as “the least interesting signing”.
Chelsea’s announcement did not refer to the World Cup incident or the reaction it has generated among England supporters. Instead, the club focused on confirming the long-term agreement with the Argentina international.
The signing means Barco will now begin his Chelsea career with a section of the club’s own support already expressing their displeasure. His reception is likely to attract attention when he first appears for the club, particularly at matches played away from Stamford Bridge.
For now, Chelsea have backed the deal and committed to Barco until 2033, despite the anger sparked by the player’s past exchanges with England and Bellingham.
