We wrap up our 2025/26 campaign on Wearside, where victory for the Blues – coupled with Brighton & Hove Albion failing to beat Manchester United and Brentford not defeating Liverpool by a big margin – would guarantee us a UEFA Europa League place.
Chelsea: Sanchez; Fofana, Colwill, Hato; Gusto, Caicedo, Fernandez (c), Cucurella; Palmer, Neto; Joao Pedro
Substitutes: Jorgensen, Acheampong, Chalobah, James, Essugo, Santos, Derry, Garnacho, Delap
Chelsea will face local side Johor Darul Ta'z, the reigning Malaysian Super League champions, at their iconic Sultan Ibrahim Stadium which opened as recently as 2020 and has the capacity for 40,000 fans.
The fixture date of Tuesday 11 August (kick-off 8pm local time) makes this match the final stop on the tour ahead of the Premier League season resuming on Saturday 22 August.
Enzo Maresca’s exit from Stamford Bridge was not driven by a pre-existing deal with Manchester City. The Italian manager was only approached by Man City in March, three months after his departure from Chelsea, firmly dismissing claims that he left his previous job because he had already accepted another.
Recent football reports clarify the timeline regarding Enzo Maresca and his departure from Stamford Bridge. Contrary to some speculation, Maresca did not leave the Chelsea job because he had already agreed to take over at Manchester City. Official timelines show he did not receive an offer from Man City until around March—a full three months after his exit from Chelsea.
Xabi Alonso, unveiled and confirmed as new a Chelsea manager.
Chelsea confirm the appointment of Xabi Alonso on a four-year deal from July 1, 2026!
Xabi Alonso on his move to Chelsea: "Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club.
"From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition. We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies.
"There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club and it will be my great honour to lead it. Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies."
Xabi Alonso's appointment reflects the Club’s belief in his broad set of experiences, coaching quality and game model, leadership attributes, character and integrity, which were key to the decision to ask him to help lead the next phase of Chelsea’s journey.
Chelsea Football Club is preparing for a new era as Xabi Alonso is set to take charge as the club's new manager. Stepping into the role with the official title of "manager" rather than "head coach," Alonso's seniority reflects his impressive track record, including a highly successful stint in the Bundesliga.
Alonso’s appointment highlights a significant shift in Chelsea's strategic vision. Club leadership reportedly views the former Bayer Leverkusen manager as the perfect fit to stabilize the squad. His tactical awareness, proven trophy pedigree, and emotional intelligence were major factors that made him the standout candidate for the role. With a focus on restoring a high-performance culture, Chelsea is determined to put recent struggles behind them and return to competing for major honors and Champions League football.
Squad Planning and Summer Transfers
Alonso will play an active role in shaping the squad for the upcoming season, working closely with the club's sporting directors and owners. While he believes the current roster possesses considerable talent, key additions are expected. To ensure the team is ready to challenge for the title, Chelsea will target several ready-made starters, with a particular focus on signing an experienced centre-back.
The club's hierarchy is moving quickly to finalize the managerial position and build a long-term project at Stamford Bridge.
Romeo Lavia: “The day I lose belief in the project; I will probably be the first one to leave this place. I 100 per cent believe we will turn it around and get back to the Chelsea everyone knows”
Chelsea secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday, ending a recent losing streak in the Premier League. Enzo Fernandez’s first-half free-kick cancelled out Ryan Gravenberch’s early sixth-minute opener. The result, in the 200th meeting between the sides, saw Chelsea respond well to pressure.
Chelsea made five changes following the defeat to Nottingham Forest, with Levi Colwill returning to the starting XI to partner Wesley Fofana. Jorrel Hato and Andrey Santos also started, with Filip Jorgensen in goal. Due to several absences, Marc Cucurella operated in a more advanced left-flank position.
Chelsea interim coach Calum McFarlane praised his team’s resilience after a hard-fought draw at Anfield. Despite falling behind early to a Ryan Gravenberch strike, the Blues responded well, with Enzo Fernandez equalizing via a 35th-minute free-kick.
"It was a really good performance," said McFarlane, highlighting the team's high energy and positive approach to the game.
The result serves as a key confidence booster for the squad as they prepare for the upcoming FA Cup final, showing a complete performance against a top-four opponent.
"We're not happy with our recent form, so it's nice to have a complete performance. It’s a positive day," he concluded.
We hereby release the Line up to take on Liverpool at Antield this afternoon and we look forward to a victory to at least give our season a meaningful ending .
Joao Pedro has achieved a major milestone in his debut season at Chelsea, scoring his 20th goal in all competitions. The Brazilian forward reached this total with an acrobatic effort against Nottingham Forest, solidifying his spot among elite company.
Chelsea Players with 20+ Goals in a Single Season (Premier League Era):
Several elite strikers and attackers have reached this mark, including legends like Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba, and Eden Hazard, as well as recent additions like Cole Palmer.
Pedro’s milestone underscores his impact on the team, particularly with his ability to create and finish opportunities from open play during a challenging season for the club.
Chelsea Football Club returns to Premier League action this bank holiday Monday, hosting Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge. Following a successful FA Cup semi-final last weekend, interim head coach Calum McFarlane has refreshed the starting XI for this crucial top-flight clash.
Confirmed Chelsea Line-UpInterim boss McFarlane has made several key adjustments to the team that defeated Leeds United, looking to balance freshness with tactical advantage in his first home game in charge.
Goalkeeper: Robert Sanchez retains his place between the posts.
Defense: A back four of Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Marc Cucurella will look to maintain a solid foundation.
Midfield: Moises Caicedo continues in the heart of the pitch, partnered by Romeo Lavia.
Attack: A creative attacking unit features Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernandez, and a starting debut for young talent Jesse Derry, supporting frontman Joao Pedro.
Key Injury BoostThe match-day squad sees a significant boost with the return of defenders Levi Colwill and captain Reece James, both recovering from injuries to take their places on the bench.
Chelsea Starting XI: Sanchez; Gusto, Chalobah, Tosin, Cucurella; Caicedo, Lavia; Palmer, Fernandez, Derry; Joao Pedro.
Substitutes: Jorgensen, James, Acheampong, Fofana, Colwill, Hato, Andrey Santos, Essugo, Delap.
Following the firing of Liam Rosenior, the club has been under interim charge (Calum McFarlane), creating uncertainty.
He speaks:
🗣️ “Any player, Cole Palmer and others, if they aren’t seeing a long-term settled future at Chelsea, it’s natural for them and their agents to start looking and thinking ‘where can we go and achieve things’ in what ultimately is a quick career as a football player.”
It's been a ups and down level of form at Stamford bridge and this has led to the sacking of the Manager Liam Rosenior .
Chelsea former player and Legend Mikel Obi has made his frustration known on his Podcast to the public that Chelsea fc shouldn't be an experimental club for no one...
Statement below:
"Listen mate we're not an experiment, you've done experimenting with Chelsea ; we're a ready made team, established, winners, big big trophies, biggest team in London"
"Don't come and experiment with us, no, get managers that are ready made and experienced at winning titles, whether that's as a manager or player"
McFarlane was placed in charge of the Blues until the end of this season on Wednesday, starting with the FA Cup semi-final against Leeds on Sunday.
McFarlane had previously led the Blues in January after Enzo Maresca's shock departure on New Year's Day, with the 40-year-old overseeing a 1-1 draw with Man City.
He became part of Rosenior's staff following his appointment as head coach, but will now step up again in an interim capacity.
Terry, who has a part-time consultancy role within Chelsea's academy set-up, admitted in February he had been frustrated to have been overlooked to be part of McFarlane's staff against Man City having worked alongside him with the Blues under-21s and under-18s.
Reacting to Rosenior's dismissal and McFarlane's interim role, Terry confirmed on TikTok that he has not been contacted about potentially having a role within the set-up.
'I am not sure what Calum’s backroom staff is going to look like, I have not had a call, I have not had a message,' Terry said.
'I will be continuing my role in the academy, I will be in the academy tomorrow, a big couple of games coming up.
'We will all get behind Calum, he did a great job away against Man City previously and we will get behind the boys because that is what we do.'
Terry, who last week fuelled speculation over a £14m takeover of Colchester United after attending their match with Accrington Stanley, also spoke of his concerns about the state of his former side.
The Chelsea legend admitted he was worried for the club's future, as he questioned whether a top manager would be prepared to join the Blues at the moment.
He cited the potential for the club to miss out on European football and potentially having to sell star names, in an apparent reference to their recent financial results.
'I sit here worrying tonight about what is going to happen with our football club,' Terry said.
'Looking at us needing a manager after the weekend, I’m not sure when ownership are going to make a decision and bring a new manager in.
'Is a real top manager going to come to Chelsea football club at the moment in the position we are in? Can’t buy players, looking like we are going to have to sell potentially and that will be our best players, which is always tough.
'We will not be playing in European football, I hope I am wrong.
'Really, really frustrated and worried more importantly. I feel the anger, feel the frustration of the Chelsea supporters.
'But listen, I’ve seen 17 managers in my era come and go as Chelsea captain. What the players have to do is just get together and really focus on the weekend’s game and forget about all the noise around and everything.
'We have a massive game, it is really difficult but also really easy to do as players to forget the noise and focus on what’s ahead of you and that is the Leeds game at the weekend.
'We’ve seen this time and time and time again, but maybe the future isn’t as clear as we’ve always seen.'
Chelsea fans had voiced their frustrations at the club's ownership and Rosenior during the 3-0 defeat on Tuesday, which ultimately proved the head coach's final match in charge.
The result left the Blues in seventh place in the Premier League, denting their hopes of earning Champions League qualification for next season.
Chelsea slipped to eighth on Wednesday after Bournemouth earned a 2-2 draw against Leeds.
When confirming Rosenior's exit, Chelsea's hierarchy stated there would be a period of 'self-reflection' as they begin the search for a new head coach.
'Chelsea Football Club has today parted company with Head Coach Liam Rosenior,' a club statement read.
'On behalf of everyone at Chelsea FC, we would like to place on record our gratitude to Liam and his staff for all their efforts during their time with the Club.
‘Liam has always conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism following his appointment mid-way through the season.
‘This has not been a decision the Club has taken lightly, however recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards with still so much more to play for this season. Everyone at Chelsea FC wishes Liam every success in the future.
‘Calum McFarlane will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach until the end of the season with support from existing Club backroom staff, as we strive to achieve European qualification and progress in the FA Cup.
‘As the Club works to bring stability to the Head Coach position, we will undertake a process of self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment.’
Chelsea suffered a fifth consecutive Premier League defeat with the result moving Brighton above us in the table.
Jack Hinshelwood did get a second ten minutes after the restart and the hosts completed the scoring in stoppage time through sub Danny Welbeck.
Alejandro Garnacho went closest for us with two second-half efforts, but there was no doubt Brighton were worthy winners at the Amex Stadium on another disappointing evening for Liam Rosenior's side.
Team news
With both Estevao Willian and Cole Palmer missing out through injury, Rosenior adjusted the team’s shape.
One of the fresh faces, Trevoh Chalobah, joined Wesley Fofana and Jorrel Hato in a central defensive trio, with Malo Gusto and Marc Cucurella operating at wing-back.
Romeo Lavia, the other player brought into the starting XI, lined up alongside Moises Caicedo in midfield. Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez supported Liam Delap in attack.
Brighton strike early
Chelsea started slowly and were punished inside four minutes. Brighton had already served a warning of their intent when an unmarked Kaoru Mitoma bounced an effort into the ground and forced a flying save from Robert Sanchez.
Hato won the first contact from the resulting corner, but the clearance only fell to Kadioglu, whose shot took a nick off Fofana on its way in.
The Seagulls kept pushing. It needed Sanchez to tip Jan Paul van Hecke’s header over the crossbar, and a couple of minutes later Georginio Rutter curled a presentable opening high and wide.
When Sanchez misplaced a short pass straight to Yankuba Minteh, it looked certain Brighton would double their lead. Thankfully, Chalobah made a superb sliding clearance off the line to stop Hinshelwood turning the Gambian’s square pass into the net.
Between the midway point of the half and the interval, we mustered a couple of promising attacks using the likes of Pedro Neto and Delap, although the result of those were corners that amounted to nothing rather than shots on goal.
Second-half switches
Ahead of the restart, Rosenior brought on Alejandro Garnacho for Fofana – who was booked in first-half stoppage time – and reverted to a back four. We looked more comfortable and Lavia whipped a strike not a million miles over inside 60 seconds of the restart.
However, it was Brighton who scored the game’s second goal on 55 minutes. We had the ball on the edge of the box but a ricochet went the hosts’ way and they countered, with Rutter teeing up Hinshelwood to sweep the ball into the net.
Sanchez made two fine saves in quick succession to keep the scoreline at 2-0, denying Kadioglu on both occasions. The first stop was low to his left, the second springing high to his right.
Blues go close
We fashioned an opening with 20 minutes left after good work from Fernandez and Gusto in the inside right channel. Gusto cut the ball back to Garnacho, whose goalbound shot was well blocked by Joel Veltman.
The Argentine went close again with a quarter-of-an-hour remaining after good work from sub Marc Guiu created space for Fernandez to drive into. His compatriot’s shot had Bart Verbruggen worried but it slipped past the far post; Guiu then suffered the same fate when his angled volley took a deflection.
Our misery was compounded in the first minute of stoppage time when two Brighton subs combined to extend their lead, Maxim De Cuyper squaring for Welbeck to slam a finish into the net.
What it means…
Brighton leapfrog us in the table into sixth position.
What’s next…
An FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United at Wembley. Kick-off on Sunday is at 3pm.
Chelsea (3-4-3): Sanchez; Fofana (Garnacho h/t), Chalobah, Hato; Gusto (Acheampong 90+2), Caicedo, Lavia (Essugo 72), Cucurella: Neto, Delap (Guiu 72), Fernandez (c)
Unused subs: Sharman-Lowe, Tosin, Sarr, Andrey Santos, Derry
Booked: Fofana 45+1
Brighton (4-4-1-1): Verbruggen; Wieffer (Veltman h/t), Van Hecke, Boscagli, Kadioglu; Minteh (De Cuyper 77), Baleba, Gross, Mitoma (Ayari 82); Hinshelwood (O’Riley 90+2); Rutter (Welbeck 82).
Unused subs: Steele, Dunk, Kostoulas, Igor Julio.
Scorer: Kadioglu 3, Hinshelwood 56, Welbeck 90+1
Booked: Minteh 58
Referee: Craig Pawson
Liam Rosenior ended his playing career with Brighton & Hove Albion. Now he will return there as Chelsea head coach, with the two clubs locked in this season’s fight for European qualification.
They have remained in the Premier League since, and now sit one point behind the Blues in the top-flight table as Rosenior goes back to the south coast tonight, this time to take his place in the away team dugout.
I had a special time there,’ he said, when asked about his memories from his time at Brighton, between 2015 and 2019.
‘It was full of – and still is full of – very good people. It doesn't surprise me to see the growth of the club.
‘The way they've built the infrastructure, the way that they've built that football club, is very good. I'm not surprised to see them where they are now in the league table. Fabian [Hurzeler, Brighton head coach] is doing a fantastic job.
‘It’s a club that has been built in a way, and that is built for consistency. They’ve got players who have understood the system for a long time, and they’re going to be a really difficult team to play against.’
Liam Rosenior wants his Chelsea side to begin a 'massive week' by arresting our disappointing form with a victory over Brighton and Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium tomorrow evening.
For our head coach, the target is clear. Take a step closer to a top-five league finish and qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League, before booking our place in a cup final for the chance to lift silverware.
Our next two games are vital for those ambitions, and Rosenior says these are the high-stakes moments that make the sport so exciting.
That's why we're in football, that's what we want. Now is the time for us to deliver and that's what we have to work towards.’
According to the Chelsea head coach, the key to bouncing back from the weekend’s loss to Manchester United and securing the results we need during the coming week is simple.
Rosenior says we must block out potential distractions by concentrating solely on the task at hand, which is maximising our chances of getting back to winning ways. In other words, first things first, and the first thing on the agenda right now is picking up three points at Brighton.
‘It's about our standards, it's about our performances,’ he continued. ‘We have to arrest this run of form. We haven't won enough games recently – that has to change.
‘If you start thinking about the repercussions, you're not focused on what you're doing. We have to focus on the game tomorrow. We have to focus on the way we play and we have to make sure we win games.
‘That's what this club demands, rightfully so, and it's what the fans expect. You can't speak about the long term if you're not doing the job in the short term.
'Being respectfully honest, we haven't done well enough in recent games. That needs to change and that's on my shoulders as the head coach.
'We have to make sure we train very well, which we have done today (Monday), and we go down to Brighton, where the only focus has to be on winning this game of football.'
Veteran football broadcaster and talkSPORT presenter Andy Jacobs has delivered a scathing assessment of Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho following his display in the latest Premier League fixture.
“I watched a lot of football over my 60 years of watching football, and even longer,” Jacobs said. “That was one of the worst performances by a professional footballer I have ever seen in my life.”
The comments come after Garnacho’s widely criticised showing, in which the 20-year-old struggled to make any positive impact, frequently losing possession and failing to track back effectively. Fans and pundits alike have expressed disappointment with the young forward’s recent form, and Jacobs’ blunt verdict has quickly gained traction across football media.
Jacobs, known for his no-nonsense opinions and deep football knowledge, has been a familiar voice on talkSPORT for many years. His strong criticism of Garnacho reflects growing frustration among observers regarding the player’s inconsistency this season despite flashes of talent earlier in his United career.
Manchester United continue their Premier League campaign amid a challenging period, with questions being raised about squad discipline, player form, and overall direction.
Delap Signed for £30m from Ipswich Town last summer, Delap has managed just one Premier League goal for Chelsea since joining. While the Englishman hasn’t had much of a run in the side, he started on Saturday.
But Delap was guilty of another poor display, and it isn’t his first this season. There was hope that the appointment of Liam Rosenior, his old Hull manager, could help him. But that hasn’t played out just yet.
Having watched Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Man United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday night, The Rest Is Football’s Gary Lineker, Micah Richards and Alan Shearer all had their say on Delap and his Chelsea stint.
Shearer began: “There’s definite talent in there, but not for Chelsea just yet,” before Lineker replied: “He’s not had a good run of games has he, with injuries as well. We’ll reserve our judgement there for a while.”
Micah Richards added: “With Delap, he’s trying to find his feet a little bit, it’s fair to say. But with the expectation of the fans at Chelsea, he needs a little bit of time, that’s for sure,” he summarised on Delap.
We Breathe Blue
