Chelsea has faced significant challenges in the first two years under new ownership, finishing 12th and 6th in the Premier League. Fans are eager for a return to title contention. Last season, Mauricio Pochettino was in charge but was replaced by Enzo Maresca despite a late improvement in form.
Eden Hazard, a former Chelsea player, believes the team is poised for a better 2024-2025 season, despite their struggles.
He noted that Chelsea’s young squad, which got even younger this summer with the departure of veteran Thiago Silva and the arrival of younger players like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Omari Kellyman, Renato Veiga, and Marc Guiu, lacks experience.
Hazard emphasized that while young players bring energy, they also bring inexperience, especially in the Premier League. This has led to inconsistent performances.
Gary Cahill echoed Hazard’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of gaining experience by playing in the league and understanding its demands.
He suggested that Chelsea’s young talent is promising, but the team could benefit from a few experienced players to stabilize the squad. He described Chelsea’s current state as a growing project that requires time and patience, which is often in short supply at a club with high expectations.
This preseason is crucial for Chelsea to adapt to their new manager and recover from last season’s injury issues. Key players like Reece James, Ben Chilwell, and Levi Colwill, who missed significant time due to injuries, need to return to full fitness.
Cahill also praised the performances of Cole Palmer and Malo Gusto last season, emphasizing the need to get them back to their best.
Chelsea’s preseason schedule includes matches against Celtic, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Inter, providing valuable opportunities for the team to gel under Maresca’s leadership. Cahill noted that this period is not only essential for players to acclimate but also for the new manager to implement his strategies and get to know his squad.
In summary, while Chelsea’s young squad holds promise, the team needs a blend of experience and stability to meet the high expectations of their supporters.
The upcoming preseason is a vital time for the Blues to prepare and build a cohesive unit capable of challenging for titles.
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