The 2015-16 Premier League title is now out-of-sight in what is turning out to be a terrible season for Chelsea and we’re only in November.
Close to the bottom of the league and unconvincing in this season’s Champions League, some of their players are looking less motivated and lady luck does is not shining on the defending English champions.
Time is running out for the current squad to make sure they finish in the top four next season and save their campaign. If recent rumours are to be believed, time may be running out for manager Jose Mourinho too.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has a reputation of pulling the trigger quickly and replacing his manager. Mourinho may get extra-time at Stamford Bridge given his reputation and track record at the club – but results simply have to improve on the pitch.
The Premier League returns this weekend after the international break and Chelsea play host to the team directly above them in the league – Norwich City. The bookmakers are giving reasonable odds on the home side to pick up three points – 2/5. Whilst many should rightfully be expecting a Chelsea win, if you’re not so confident, you could also back them with one of several free bets.
In terms of players currently at the club, there are some names who may have a bleak future at Chelsea come the January transfer window or the summer.
Radamel Falcao is the first and most obvious name on the list. Although he is only in loan, he has been as disappointing for Chelsea so far as he was for Manchester United last season.
Loic Remy’s future cannot be certain after poor performances in place of the suspended Diego Costa this season. The French striker did score some valuable goals towards the end of last season but the Blues are constantly being linked to big name striker such as Mauro Icardi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic – signing either of these would certainly pave the way for Remy’s departure.
Chelsea’s defence has shown improvement in recent weeks but was their achilles heel at the start of the season. Questions have been raised continually as to whether this will be John Terry’s final season. The club captain turns 35 next month and Mourinho has made no secret over his interest in John Stones.
One shouldn’t question Terry’s performances though. However, Branislav Ivanovic at right-back has had a nightmare campaign and many are calling for his head. Gary Cahill’s future would certainly come under question if Chelsea were able to land Everton’s Stones. The England international has already fallen behind Kurt Zouma recently.
Late summer signing Papy Djilobodji has yet to make an impact at the Bridge and is already in contact with Besiktas according to the Metro, suggesting he will join the Turkish side in January 2016.
Below-par midfielders include John Obi Mikel, Ramires and Oscar. Whilst Eden Hazard, Cesc Fabregas and Nemanja Matic haven’t hit their top form from last season, they are players that should be kept whilst they search for their form. Mourinho could do with an upgrade on Mikel and Ramires in that holding midfield role, and whilst Eden Hazard and Willian have both played the number 10 role this season, they could do with a top playmaker in this position, like what Arsenal have with Mesut Ozil.