When a loan becomes a tearful farewell: Chelsea recall rocks Dortmund
26 January 2026
Chelsea recall sparks emotional farewell at Dortmund
Chelsea's decision to recall Aaron Anselmino from his loan at Borussia Dortmund reverberates, as the defender was seen crying while saying goodbye to his teammates in Germany.
Reports suggest the German club's management are furious about his departure, just days before the winter transfer window closes.
The 20-year-old defender joined Dortmund on a one-year loan last summer.
The Daily Mail reported that Chelsea activated a clause to terminate the loan this month, allowing them to bolster options at center-back.
On Monday, Anselmino appeared deeply affected as he bid farewell to everyone at Dortmund.
In a video posted by the club, Dortmund players and staff were seen clapping for Anselmino as he said goodbye, warmly embracing each of them.
The 38-second clip titled 'Emotional Farewell' ends with the Argentine posing for a group photo with his former teammates.
Although Chelsea had the right to recall him, Bild newspaper says the decision left Dortmund officials 'astonished' and 'angry' because it puts them in a difficult position for several reasons.
The first reason for their anger was a lack of communication or notice from Chelsea, with no prior hint of their intention to bring him back.
With only a week left before the winter window closes on February 2, the Bundesliga club now needs a replacement.
Bild also notes Dortmund had hoped to sign Anselmino permanently, despite no clause in the original deal allowing that.
Anselmino had played ten matches for Dortmund on loan and had impressed club management and fans during his brief spell in Germany.
Punchline: If football transfers were dating apps, Chelsea just swiped right on a backup defender—and Dortmund left with the bill.
Punchline: Dortmund might file a complaint with the window, but at least the goodbye video had a pro-level hug budget.
