When Chelsea spent onlyĀ Ā£7 million last season to sign Demba Ba in order to somehow rectify their terrible striker situation, it seemed like a steal and an amazing deal. Eight months later, and the Senegalese striker knows that he’s been a failure at the club, blaming no one but himself for not finding a more permanent place in the lineup.
Ba was used in some sort of rotation with Fernando Torres, but soon enough found himself on the bench. This season, with Mourinho opting to loan out Romelu Lukaku, Ba isn’t getting more credit than before, as Samuel Eto’o has been brought to make it a three-man race for the starting spot.
Ba played 22 times for Chelsea last season, but scored only six goals in all competition. This season, he has made only one league appearance, leaving the pitch after 65 minutes. The rest of the time he’s been on the bench or even out of the squad, making it easy to see Jose Mourinho, at the moment, isn’t really basing his plans on him.
I know I haven’t played as well as I did at Newcastle or West Ham.Ā If I performed really well, I’d have played every game. If I didn’t play every game, it’s because I didn’t play well every match.Ā There are no other reasons for it. I always wanted to play Champions League football, so I’m very excited. We know a little bit about Basel from last season when we played them. And weāre doing everything to counter them, block them and win.
Ba might have had a chance to go somewhere else during the summer. Arsenal showed interest in the player when they were desperately looking to sign a striker. Ba himself was hoping for a switch and a change, knowing he won’t be losing out on a chance to play in the Champions League, but Jose Mourinho was part of the reason he preferred staying at Chelsea after all.
I told him that if I stay I will keep fighting for the club.Ā I wanted to play and I want to play. I was ready to go and to play there but it didn’t happen.Ā I have always worked hard to deserve what I have. If I play well, Iāll deserve to play. If I donāt perform, it will be my fault.