Michael Emenalo has stepped down as technical director of Chelsea, ending a 10-year tenure with the club.

Emenalo was one of Roman Abramovic's most trusted lieutenants. 

Chelsea’s chairman, Bruce Buck, said Emenalo’s resignation had been accepted “with regret.”

Antonio Conte has consistently expressed frustration with Chelsea's summer recruitment and implied criticism of Emenalo and Marina Granovskaia. 

Emenalo, whose duties included leading the club’s international and domestic scouting network, could eventually pursue a similar role at Monaco.

“This has been a very difficult decision to make, but one I believe is right for both myself and my family, and the club,” Emenalo said. “I have had the privilege to work alongside some of the most talented people in the world of sport over the past 10 years, and I will depart incredibly proud of the achievements we have made. I wish Chelsea every success and look forward to following the club’s future triumphs from afar.”