Following a disappointing season under the new leadership, Chelsea have been showing signs of resilience in the ongoing season, experiencing highs and lows in domestic competitions.
Over the past two years at Chelsea, owner Todd Boehly has faced challenges as the club transitioned from competing for major trophies to a position in the middle of the Premier League standings. Under Boehly's ownership, there has been a change in Chelsea's performance and managerial changes.
The Blues have faced a challenging season under the management of Mauricio Pochettino and have found it difficult to contend in the upper spots of the league table, especially following an active summer transfer window in 2023.
However, they showcased their best all-around performance of the 2023–24 season in a 1-1 Premier League draw against Manchester City on February 17.
The club's future transfer activities may hinge on their success in securing European football at Stamford Bridge for the 2024–25 season. The outcome of their campaign and their ability to secure a spot in European competitions will likely play a significant role in shaping Chelsea's transfer plans.
Let's take a look at how the London team may line up for the 2024–25 Premier League season based on the players they've been connected with and are expected to sign.
Below, VbetNews takes a look at how Chelsea should line up for the majority of their Premier League and European Cup matches in 2024–25:
How Chelsea should line up for 2024–25
GK: Robert Sanchez
Ever since joining Chelsea from Brighton last summer, Robert Sanchez has been the Blues N1 goalkeeper. Due to a knee injury the Spain international was out for several weeks after starting for Chelsea in 19 matches.
Sanchez is progressing in his recovery and will be back to as the Blues' first choice goalkeeper. Even though the 26-year-old faced a challenging start to the season, conceding five goals in his initial four appearances, he has progressively established himself as a dependable goalkeeper for CFC.
Even though Petrovic has been an excellent performer for Chelsea during Sanchez's absence, it is currently seen that once the Spanish shot-stopper is back from injury, he will get his place in the squad back.
RB: Malo Gusto
Malo Gusto probably didn't expect to receive such significant playing time in his debut season in west London, however, ongoing injury issues with Reece James have provided the £30 million signing from Lyon with abundant opportunities, and he has performed admirably overall.
Given that Gusto won't reach the age of 21 until mid-May, Pochettino can be highly optimistic about his contributions in the attacking third, despite acknowledging the need for improvement in defensive aspects.
The Frenchman has displayed a tendency for impulsive decisions and reckless challenges, accumulating five yellow cards and one red in 17 Premier League appearances.
CB: Axel Disasi
The Blues, amidst their efforts to establish a consistent performance this season, discovered in Disasi a defender capable of not only maintaining a solid defensive line but also motivating the team. In one of his standout displays this season, WhoScored data highlighted an impressive 16 clearances and three blocked shots against Manchester City.
After this impressive match, Jamie Carragher hailed Disasi's performance as “a John Terry performance.”.
As the season unfolds, Chelsea, energized by Disasi's role as a defensive anchor, are optimistic about converting strong performances into victories. Their focus extends beyond mere praise, with aspirations for tangible success reflected in their ambitions to climb the league standings.
CB: Wesley Fofana
Chelsea centre-back Wesley Fofana had surgery after damaging his anterior cruciate ligament in his knee.
During Chelsea's pre-season 2023 tour of the United States, manager Mauricio Pochettino expressed optimism that Fofana would return from injury this season.
The French player was back on the training pitch in late November.
He still has a few months of recovery to go as he strengthens his knee and builds fitness. There's still a chance he'll return before the season is over, but that'll depend on how his recovery goes.
Fofana had already experienced multiple injuries, including a broken leg when playing for former club Leicester in a pre-season friendly two years ago.
LB: Ben Chilwell
Ben Chilwell's return from injury as Chelsea's captain significantly influenced the squad's performance, demonstrating his leadership and impact on the field.
“I want to get forward when I can, and be defensively solid too; it's a very talented squad so hopefully we're going to get there and it can be a flick of a switch soon,” said the key Chelsea star upon his return.
It is seen that Chiwell will continue being an important figure in the Blues' squad and inspire exceptional team work at Stamford Bridge.
CM: Enzo Fernandes
After a period of adjustment at Chelsea, 23-year-old midfielder Enzo Fernandez is now showcasing his true potential.
Recent statistics, as reported by WhoScored, reveal that the Argentine has delivered more accurate long balls in the Premier League since joining Chelsea than any other player, surpassing even Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne.
Despite Chelsea reportedly spending €121 million on his acquisition, Enzo Fernandez has justified his price tag by contributing seven goals and one assist in 31 appearances across all competitions this season.
CM: Moises Caicedo
After a long period of ambiguity and competition with Liverpool, Chelsea succeeded in singing one of their top targets in the summer 2023 transfer window - Moises Caicedo.
Caicedo excels in covering substantial ground across the pitch. While frequently operating in front of Chelsea's back four, his remarkable ability comes to the fore when the team's high press is breached and opposition players navigate between the lines.
In such situations, the Chelsea newcomer's impressive capacity to recover and regain possession becomes a key asset for the team. However as most players at a new club, Caicedo also has his highs and lows.
AM: Conor Gallagher
Gallagher, who has been the subject of transfer speculation in the last two windows, has been a consistent presence for Chelsea this season. He only missed one of the team's 24 league games due to suspension and has been a standout player in all of the others.
With over 30 appearances in all competitions, Pochettino commended Gallagher for his "great commitment" to the team.
“Always trying to compensate every situation in an offensive and defensive situation and that is priceless to have a player like him,” said the Blues' manager to the reporters.
When questioned about Gallagher's future, Pochettino responded, "What he told me was to stay at Chelsea. But then it's about him and the club."
WAM: Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer has flourished since departing his hometown club Manchester City to join Chelsea, seeking consistent playing time. The move, valued at up to £42.5 million, took place in the summer following Palmer's season of winning a treble with Manchester City.
During his time at City, he accumulated a total of 1,482 minutes, but since joining Chelsea in under six months and just 28 games, Palmer has surpassed that with 2,178 minutes.
Additionally, his goal contributions have seen a notable increase, with the 21-year-old scoring 12 goals and providing nine assists for the Blues.
WAM: Christopher Nkunku
Christopher Nkunku has faced a challenging debut season at Chelsea, marked by a series of frustrating stop-start situations. Despite being initially celebrated as the focal point of Mauricio Pochettino's attack, the Frenchman has been hampered by injuries.
Nkunku made an impactful debut by coming off the bench to score for the Blues in the 2-1 defeat at Wolves on Christmas Eve. Unfortunately, just six days later, the 25-year-old sustained a hip injury during the 3-2 win against Luton, keeping him sidelined for an additional month.
The Frenchman is back on the pitch now, and it is seen that he will eventually find his lucky spot at Stamford Bridge and refine his role in the squad.
FW: Victor Osimhen (Napoli)
Chelsea are currently leading Arsenal in the race to sign Napoli forward Victor Osimhen this summer, according to information from TEAMtalk.
The Nigerian striker will be leaving Napoli at the end of the season, making him a sought-after target for top clubs. The Blues are actively working to secure the deal, having engaged in talks with Osimhen's representatives.
The club has even enlisted the help of legends Didier Drogba and John Obi Mikel to persuade the 25-year-old to join. It was also reported that Osimhen's desire is to join Chelsea.
Chelsea lineup, starting XI for the 2024 / 25 season
Chelsea 2024–25 squad
Goalkeepers
- 1. Robert Sanchez
- 13. Marcus Bettinelli
- 28. Djordje Petrovic
- 47. Lucas Bergstrom
Defenders
- 2. Axel Disasi
- 3. Marc Cucurella
- 5. Benoit Badiashile
- 6. Thiago Silva
- 14. Trevoh Chalobah
- 21. Ben Chilwell
- 24. Reece James
- 26. Levi Colwill
- 27. Malo Gusto
- 33. Wesley Fofana
- 42. Alfie Gilchrist
- Malang Saar
Midfielders
- 8. Enzo Fernandez
- 16. Lesley Ugochokwu
- 17. Carney Chukwuemeka
- 23. Conor Gallagher
- 25. Moises Caicedo
- 31. Cesare Casadei
- 45. Romeo Lavia
- 54. Leo Castledine
Forwards
- 7. Raheem Sterling
- 10. Mykhailo Mudryk
- 11. Noni Madueke
- 15. Nicolas Jackson
- 18. Christopher Nkunku
- 20. Cole Palmer
- 36. Deivid Washington
- 43. Diego Moreira
Chelsea 2024 / 25 transfers IN
- Ivan Toney (Brentford) - 50%
- Victor Osimhen (Napoli) - 70%
- Rafael Leao - 20%
- Victor Boniface (Bayer) - 20%
Chelsea 2024 / 25 transfers OUT
- Conot Gallagher - 60%
- Thiago Silva: Contract Expiry - Jun 30, 2024- 90%
- Lucas Bergström: Contract Expiry - Jun 30, 2024- 90%
- Benoit Badiashille - 70%