Soccer

Chelsea Premier League Preview – Could Maresca be the man to restore the Blues to glory?

Photo of Nicky Nicky12/08/2024 - 08:03 am
Cole Palmer is the crown jewel of this Chelsea team
(Photo by Chris Lee - Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

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As Chelsea prepares for the 2024/25 Premier League season, the arrival of Enzo Maresca marks a new chapter in the club’s quest to reclaim its place at the top of English football. After a lacklustre 2023/24 season that saw the Blues finish 6th, a distant 28 points behind the champions, the club decided to part ways with Mauricio Pochettino. In his place, they’ve appointed Maresca, a manager with a burgeoning reputation, fresh off a successful stint with Leicester City in the Championship and with a background as a Pep Guardiola assistant at Manchester City.

Maresca inherits a squad that has undergone significant changes, with the club once again making headlines for their aggressive activity in the transfer market. The Blues have signed a bunch of new talent, aiming to rebuild and reshape a team that underperformed last season. With a new tactical approach, inspired by the philosophies of his mentor at Manchester City, Guardiola, and a squad filled with both seasoned stars and exciting young prospects, expectations are high.

Chelsea fans are hopeful that Maresca’s blend of tactical acumen and fresh energy will be the key to reigniting the club’s pursuit of Premier League glory. The question now is whether Maresca can harness this potential and lead Chelsea back to the summit of English football.

2023/24 Season Recap: Disaster

Ok, maybe some may say it wasn’t a total disaster. But when your manager gets sacked, you don’t qualify for the Europa or Champions League, your players fight over penalty kicks, and your squad is bloated beyond belief, there aren’t many other things to call it.

The 2023/24 season started with high hopes but quickly descended into chaos. Chelsea, a club that prides itself on being a top contender in Europe, found itself in disarray both on and off the pitch and ended in 6th place.

The lack of cohesion was evident, with key players underperforming and the squad appearing disjointed. Internal issues spilled onto the pitch, most notably when players were seen arguing over who would take a penalty, an embarrassing moment that epitomized the lack of leadership and unity within the team. The season, which had started with aspirations of silverware, ended with Chelsea outside of both the Europa League and Champions League spots, a devastating blow for a club of their stature.

Reece James needs to stay fit this year
(Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images)

Despite the turmoil, there were a few bright spots in an otherwise bleak campaign. Cole Palmer, a relatively unknown figure before the season began, emerged as one of the league’s standout performers. His rise was meteoric, going from a respected City academy product to one of the most talked-about talents in the Premier League.

The club now faces a critical summer, with a need to offload excess players, rebuild the squad, and appoint a manager who can bring stability and direction. The pressure is immense, and the stakes are high. They cannot afford another season of mediocrity; they must regroup, refocus, and come back stronger if they are to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite.

Summer Business Analysis:

Signings: Pedro Neto, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Filip Jorgensen, Omari Kellyman, Aaron Anselmino, Renato Veiga, Caleb Wiley, Marc Guiu, Tosin Adarabioyo

Chelsea have been incredibly active in the transfer market this summer, seemingly signing anyone and everyone available. The club has made a flurry of signings, and it appears they are not finished yet, with more transfers expected before the window closes. While the sheer volume of new arrivals might raise eyebrows, there are a few signings that stand out, each bringing unique qualities to the squad. Among the many new faces, three signings, in particular, merit closer attention: Pedro Neto, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Filip Jørgensen.

Pedro Neto’s arrival from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £60 million is one of the marquee signings of the summer. Neto is an electric winger, known for his blistering pace, direct style of play, and exceptional dribbling skills. His ability to take on defenders and deliver precise crosses makes him a constant threat on the flanks. Neto’s style is likely to provide a significant upgrade on an ageing Raheem Sterling, who has struggled to maintain consistency in recent seasons.

However, there is a caveat to this excitement—Neto’s injury record. Over the past few years, he has struggled with injuries, which have limited his appearances and hampered his development. Nevertheless, if Neto can stay fit, he has the potential to be one of the most impactful players in the Premier League. His dynamic play on the wing could be the spark that Chelsea’s attack has been missing.

Another significant addition is Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who has joined from Leicester City, following Enzo Maresca’s arrival as the new Leicester manager. Dewsbury-Hall is a proven Premier League midfielder, known for his energy, robustness, and tactical intelligence. He is a tireless worker in the midfield, capable of contributing both defensively and offensively.

His arrival signals a shift in Chelsea’s midfield dynamics, likely paving the way for Conor Gallagher’s departure. Gallagher, a promising talent in his own right, has seen his role at Chelsea become increasingly uncertain, and Dewsbury-Hall’s signing could be the final push for him to seek opportunities elsewhere. Dewsbury-Hall’s versatility and Premier League experience make him a valuable asset, and his presence in the midfield will add depth and resilience, qualities that Chelsea desperately need to navigate the long and demanding season ahead.

Filip Jørgensen is another intriguing addition to the squad, coming in from Villarreal to challenge Robert Sánchez for the starting goalkeeper position. Jørgensen is a young, talented goalkeeper who had an impressive season in La Liga, showcasing his shot-stopping abilities, composure under pressure, and command of the penalty area. His performances in Spain have not gone unnoticed, and Chelsea’s acquisition of Jørgensen reflects their desire to foster competition in every position.

With Sánchez having an inconsistent first season at Chelsea, Jørgensen’s arrival will keep him on his toes and provide manager Mauricio Pochettino with a solid alternative. If Jørgensen can adapt quickly to the demands of English football, he could even push to become the first-choice goalkeeper sooner rather than later. The battle between Jørgensen and Sánchez for the starting spot is set to be one of the most intriguing subplots of Chelsea’s season.

While these three signings stand out, they are just a fraction of the extensive recruitment drive Chelsea has undertaken this summer. The sheer number of new arrivals is reminiscent of a club undergoing a major rebuild, and it raises questions about how quickly the squad can gel and whether the influx of new faces will lead to more stability or further instability.

The pressure is on for these new signings to hit the ground running, as Chelsea look to improve on last season’s disappointing campaign. With more transfers potentially on the horizon, Chelsea’s summer business could either prove to be a masterstroke or a case of too much, too soon. The coming months will reveal whether the club’s aggressive approach in the transfer market will pay off or if it will only add to the challenges that lie ahead.

Outgoings: Ian Maatsen, Lewis Hall, Omari Hutchinson, Hakim Ziyech, Malang Sarr, Thiago Silva

Chelsea have not only been busy in bringing new players into the squad but have also been active on the outgoing front, making significant changes to their roster. The club has decided to part ways with several players, some of whom have been key figures in recent years, while others are younger talents looking for opportunities elsewhere. Among the most notable departures are Ian Maatsen, Lewis Hall, Omari Hutchinson, Hakim Ziyech, Malang Sarr, and Thiago Silva.

Ian Maatsen’s departure to Aston Villa for £40 million is one of the most significant moves of the summer. Maatsen, a highly-rated full-back, showed immense promise during his time at Chelsea, particularly during his loan spell at Dortmund last year.

However, with the influx of new signings and the depth in Chelsea’s squad, the club decided to cash in on the young Dutchman. Aston Villa, under Unai Emery, are looking to bolster their squad for another European push, and Maatsen’s versatility and attacking prowess from the left flank make him a valuable addition to their lineup. For Chelsea, it’s a substantial financial return on a player who has yet to fully establish himself at the club, but it’s also a move that raises questions about letting go of young talent.

Hakim Ziyech, who initially struggled to find his footing in the Premier League, has completed a permanent move to Galatasaray after an impressive loan spell with the Turkish giants last season. Ziyech’s time at Chelsea was marked by flashes of brilliance but also by inconsistency and injury troubles.

His move to Galatasaray represents a fresh start for the Moroccan winger, where he has already found success and appreciation from the fans. The transfer also benefits Chelsea by freeing up space in a crowded attacking department and reducing the wage bill. Ziyech leaves Stamford Bridge with mixed memories but with the potential to rediscover his best form in a league that suits his style of play.

Perhaps the most emotional departure is that of Thiago Silva, who has returned to his boyhood club Fluminense after four remarkable years at Chelsea. Silva arrived at Chelsea as a veteran defender and quickly established himself as a leader both on and off the pitch. His experience, composure, and defensive intelligence were pivotal during Chelsea’s Champions League-winning campaign in 2021.

Even at 38, Silva’s performances in the Premier League were nothing short of exceptional, defying age and proving his class week in and week out. His departure marks the end of an era at Chelsea, as the club loses one of its most reliable and respected figures. For Silva, the move to Fluminense is a homecoming, a chance to finish his illustrious career where it all began, surrounded by familiar faces and adoring fans.

In addition to these headline departures, the club has also moved on from younger talents such as Lewis Hall and Omari Hutchinson, who are seeking more regular first-team opportunities elsewhere. Malang Sarr, who never quite managed to break into Chelsea’s first team, has also left in search of more playing time.

What’s preseason suggesting?

Chelsea’s preseason has been a mixed bag, with results that lean more negative than positive, raising questions as the team prepares for the upcoming Premier League season. The Blues have played six games in two weeks, a hectic schedule that has necessitated significant rotation and experimentation with the squad. This kind of rotation often makes it difficult to draw concrete conclusions from preseason performances, but the outcomes have still left fans with more concerns than confidence.

The atmosphere around the club has also been affected by off-field issues, most notably involving Enzo Fernandez, who appeared to make racist comments on an Instagram live stream after Argentina’s Copa America victory. This incident has cast a shadow over the team’s preparations and added to the mixed feelings among supporters as they look ahead to the new season.

Results on the pitch have been inconsistent. Chelsea began their preseason with a 2-2 draw against Wrexham, a result that hinted at defensive frailties. A 4-1 loss to Celtic followed, exposing further vulnerabilities, particularly in defense. A 3-0 win against Club América offered a brief respite.

However, subsequent defeats – 4-2 to Manchester City and 2-1 to Real Madrid – underscored the team’s ongoing struggles against top-tier competition. The preseason concluded with a 1-1 draw against Inter, leaving Chelsea with a sense of unfinished business as they head into the new campaign.

Despite the mixed results, it’s important to remember that preseason can be misleading. The frequent rotation of players, combined with the experimental nature of these matches, means that the true strength of the team may not yet be fully visible. The real test for Chelsea will begin when the Premier League kicks off, and they will need to show significant improvement if they are to compete at the highest level this season.

DateHome TeamAway TeamResult
Thursday, 25th JulyChelseaWrexham2-2 D
Saturday, 27th AugustChelseaCeltic1-4 L
Thursday, 1st AugustChelseaClub América3-0 W
Saturday, 3rd AugustMan CityChelsea4-2 L
Wednesday, 7th AugustReal MadridChelsea2-1 L
Sunday, 11th AugustChelseaInter1-1 D
Chelsea have had a mixed bag of pre-season results

What does Chelsea’s start to the season look like?

Chelsea’s opening fixtures in the Premier League are daunting, setting the stage for a challenging start to the season. The first five games are particularly tough, and new manager Enzo Maresca will be under intense scrutiny as he attempts to navigate these early tests.

The season opener on Sunday, 18th August, sees Chelsea hosting Manchester City at Stamford Bridge. This match is a true baptism of fire, as City are the reigning champions and one of the strongest teams in Europe. A positive result here would be a massive statement, but it will require Chelsea to be at their very best.

A week later, on Sunday, 25th August, Chelsea travel to face Wolves away. Molineux is always a difficult place to visit, and Wolves, known for their resilience and ability to frustrate top teams, will present a stern challenge. Following that, Chelsea return home to face Crystal Palace on Sunday, 1st September. Palace are a well-organized and resurgent side under Oliver Glasner, and this London derby will be anything but straightforward.

After the international break, Chelsea’s campaign continues with an away fixture against Bournemouth on Saturday, 14th September. Bournemouth have often been a tricky opponent for the Blues, especially at the Vitality Stadium, where the smaller pitch and passionate home crowd can make for a challenging environment. Finally, on Saturday, 21st September, Chelsea face West Ham away in another tough London derby. The Hammers in recent years have consistently performed well against top teams, and this match will test Chelsea’s resolve and adaptability.

These early fixtures will be crucial in setting the tone for Chelsea’s season. With tough opponents and high expectations, Maresca’s ability to integrate new signings, manage the squad, and secure points in these challenging games will be pivotal. The pressure will be on from the very start, and how Chelsea navigate these opening weeks could very well shape the narrative of their entire campaign.

DateTimeHome TeamAway Team
Sunday, 18 Aug 202416:30 BSTChelseaManchester City
Sunday, 25 Aug 202414:00 BSTWolvesChelsea
Sunday, 1 Sept 202413:30 BSTChelseaCrystal Palace
Saturday, 14 Sept 202420:00 BSTBournemouthChelsea
Saturday, 21 Sept 202412:30 BSTWest HamChelsea
Chelsea’s first five games of the Premier League season

Who will burst onto the scene this year?

The 18-year-old striker, who was signed from Barcelona, is one of the most highly touted prospects to come out of La Masia in recent years. Guiu’s talent has been evident from a young age, and his development at Barcelona’s famed academy has prepared him well for the challenges of top-tier football. Despite his youth, Guiu is expected to play a part in Chelsea’s team this year.

While Jackson and Nkunku are likely to be the first-choice options up front, the demands of a long and grueling season will present opportunities for Guiu to make his mark. His technical ability, combined with his sharp instincts in front of goal, could see him become a breakout star for Chelsea. The club’s faith in his potential suggests that he could be gradually integrated into the first team, where his performances could quickly make him a fan favorite.

Key Player: Cole Palmer

The player who stole the headlines last season and is set to be Chelsea’s key player again is Cole Palmer. After a sensational campaign, Palmer firmly established himself as one of the Premier League’s brightest stars. His stats were nothing short of extraordinary: 22 goals and 11 assists in 34 appearances, including two hat tricks. Palmer was simply unplayable at times, with defenders struggling to contain his creativity and attacking prowess.

Cole Palmer has been a revelation for Chelsea
(Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)

His rise from an almost unknown talent under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City to a household name at Chelsea has been remarkable. Palmer’s performances earned him a call-up to the England squad, where he further cemented his reputation by scoring in the Euro final. With the confidence gained from last season, Palmer is poised to be the driving force behind Chelsea’s attack, and his influence on the pitch will be crucial to the club’s success this year.

365Scores’ Chelsea Prediction:

I’m not even sure what to say about this Chelsea team. Have they improved on their squad? Maybe slightly. Have they improved on their manager? I’m not sure. They have bright players, and some players are coming back from injury. Reece James should hopefully stay fit, Romeo Lavia will be available for selection this year. But still, it’s tough to say. Last year, I thought that Chelsea would finish fourth. I was wrong.

This year, I can see Chelsea finishing in a similar position to last year, but with a more convincing style of play. If they finish 5th-6th, that’d represent a decent season for the Blues. Let’s see what happens!

By Nicky Helfgott – NickyHelfgott1 on X (Twitter)

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Photo of Nicky Nicky12/08/2024 - 08:03 am