Michael Emenalo has shocked Chelsea by stepping down from his position as technical director, despite a plea from Roman Abramovich to stay. As exclusively revealed by Telegraph Sport on Monday, Emenalo brought his 10-year association with the club to an end following the victory over Manchester United.

It is understood Emenalo made his decision during the summer, but delayed his departure to suit Chelsea and cause the minimum amount of upheaval.

Chelsea owner Abramovich asked Emenalo to reconsider, but the 52-year-old was adamant that the time is right to take a break and spend more time with his three young boys who are aged 11, nine and seven.

The move may be viewed in some quarters as a victory for head coach Antonio Conte, who has wanted more control over transfers and whose own future has been the source of speculation.

There were stormy moments during the summer, when Chelsea failed to land a number of their top targets, but Emenalo remained supportive of the Italian who he helped to appoint last year.