Watch: Run it Back to this classic solo goal by Giroud in the FA Cup Semi-Final

 Giroud scores solo goal in 2018 Emirates FA Cup semi-final

Run it back 🔵 pic.twitter.com/H6pth0yZ9r

— CFCDaily (@CFCDaily) April 4, 2026

Ex-Chelsea and Brazil Star Oscar Forced into Early Retirement at 34 Following Terrifying Heart Scare During São Paulo Training

Former Chelsea midfielder and Brazilian international Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Júnior has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 34 after suffering a serious cardiac incident during a training session with his boyhood club, São Paulo.

The shocking event occurred several months ago when Oscar collapsed while undergoing routine fitness testing on an exercise bike at São Paulo’s training ground. He lost consciousness for approximately two and a half minutes, with his heart stopping briefly, prompting immediate medical intervention by the club’s staff and doctors from Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein. He was rushed to the hospital, admitted to intensive care, and spent five days under observation.

Subsequent examinations diagnosed Oscar with **vasovagal syncope**, a condition that causes a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to fainting. Although the condition can often be managed with medication, the episode—combined with earlier signs of cardiac irregularities detected during recovery from a separate injury—raised serious concerns for Oscar and his family about the risks of continuing to play at the highest level.

After careful consideration and consultations with medical specialists, São Paulo, and his loved ones, Oscar made the difficult decision to prioritize his long-term health and retire from the game. He finalized the mutual termination of his contract with São Paulo this week.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Oscar reflected on the frightening moment: “My heart stopped for about two and a half minutes. It was a shock.” He expressed gratitude for the support he received and emphasized his focus on family and well-being moving forward.

Born in São Paulo, Oscar began his professional career at the club in 2008 before moving to Internacional and then to Chelsea in 2012 for a reported £25 million. During his five-year spell at Stamford Bridge, he became a fan favorite, helping the Blues win two Premier League titles (2014–15 and 2016–17), the League Cup, and the Europa League. Known for his exceptional vision, technical ability, and set-piece expertise, Oscar earned 48 caps for Brazil between 2011 and 2015, representing his country at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2012 Olympics.

After leaving Chelsea in 2017, he enjoyed a successful stint in China with Shanghai SIPG (now Shanghai Port), winning multiple Chinese Super League titles, before returning to São Paulo in late 2024 on a three-year deal in an emotional homecoming. His second spell was hampered by injuries, including a fractured vertebra, but he remained a beloved figure at the club.

São Paulo issued a statement confirming the retirement and wishing Oscar well: “We respect Oscar’s decision to put his health first after this serious scare. He will always be part of the Tricolor family, and we thank him for his dedication and talent.”

Oscar’s retirement highlights the importance of cardiac screening in professional sports and serves as a reminder of the unseen risks athletes face. Tributes have poured in from former teammates, clubs, and fans worldwide, celebrating a career defined by creativity, resilience, and joy on the pitch.

Oscar has not yet detailed his future plans but is expected to spend more time with his family while exploring opportunities in football or beyond.

Watch: Chelsea big 7-0 win over Port Vale at Stamford Bridge

 

Chelsea Break 100-Year FA Cup Record in Dominant 7-0 Quarter-Final Win Over Port Vale

Chelsea made FA Cup history on Saturday afternoon, breaking a century-old club record for the largest margin of victory in a single match during the competition as they dismantled League One side Port Vale 7-0 at Stamford Bridge to advance to the semi-finals.

The emphatic victory marked Chelsea’s biggest-ever winning margin in an FA Cup fixture since their record 9-1 triumph over Worksop Town in the first round in 1908 — more than 118 years ago — and stands as one of the most comprehensive performances in the modern era of the competition against any opponent. No Chelsea side had achieved a seven-goal haul in an FA Cup match for over 100 years in such commanding fashion against competitive opposition.

Jorrel Hato set the tone with a clinical finish inside the opening two minutes, effectively ending Port Vale’s hopes before the tie had truly begun. João Pedro added a second on 25 minutes, before an own goal forced by Cole Palmer’s pressure just before half-time made it 3-0. The Blues showed no let-up after the break, with Tosin Adarabioyo powering home a header on 57 minutes, Andrey Santos nodding in from a corner on 69 minutes, Estêvão Willian producing a moment of magic in the 82nd minute, and substitute Alejandro Garnacho converting a stoppage-time penalty to round off the scoring.

The result was built on complete dominance: Chelsea enjoyed overwhelming possession, created chance after chance, and restricted Port Vale to zero shots on target throughout the 90 minutes. Goalkeeper Robert Sánchez enjoyed a quiet afternoon, while the defensive unit — anchored by Wesley Fofana and Tosin — remained impenetrable.

Head coach **Liam Rosenior**, whose position had come under scrutiny following a challenging week in the Premier League and internal squad matters, praised his players’ professionalism and focus. “This was about respect for the competition, respect for the shirt, and executing the plan with discipline,” Rosenior said post-match. “We controlled the game from the first whistle and showed the quality and depth we have in this squad. To score seven and keep a clean sheet is pleasing, but more important is the response and the character shown today.”

The win provides significant relief and momentum for Rosenior, appointed in January 2026, as Chelsea seek to stabilise their season amid recent turbulence. It also highlighted the emerging talent at the club, with young stars Hato, Andrey Santos, Estêvão, and Garnacho all contributing to the scoreline alongside established players like captain Cole Palmer and João Pedro.

Port Vale, who brought a passionate following of approximately 6,000 supporters and had enjoyed a memorable cup run to reach this stage, were outclassed by the Premier League outfit’s intensity and quality. Manager and players alike were left to reflect on a day where the gulf in class proved insurmountable, though they earned applause from the Stamford Bridge crowd for their spirit.

This commanding performance not only propels Chelsea into the FA Cup semi-finals — to be held at Wembley Stadium later this month — but also re-establishes their credentials as serious contenders for silverware in a season that has tested the squad’s resilience. The semi-final draw will determine their next opponents, with the Blues now carrying renewed confidence into the business end of the campaign.

**Match Statistics**  

**Chelsea 7-0 Port Vale**  

**Goals:** Hato (2'), João Pedro (25'), Jordan Lawrence-Gabriel (og 42'), Tosin (57'), Andrey Santos (69'), Estêvão (82'), Garnacho (90+2' pen)  

**Chelsea (4-2-3-1):** Sánchez; Gusto (Acheampong 85'), Fofana, Tosin, Hato; Andrey Santos, Lavia (Kavuma-McQueen 78'); Estêvão, Palmer (c) (Essugo 60'), Neto (Garnacho 61'); João Pedro (Delap 60').  

**Substitutes not used:** Sharman-Lowe, Sarr, Cucurella, Caicedo.  

**Attendance:** Near capacity at Stamford Bridge.  

**Referee:** Farai Hallam.

Chelsea’s Estevao Willian the first player since Bukayo Saka to achieve FA Cup feat

Estevao Willian continues to go from strength to strength at Chelsea, adding another impressive feat to his name at just 18 years of age in the 7-0 win over Port Vale.

Estevao Willian was the architect of Chelsea’s dominance during the 7–0 rout, constantly tormenting the League One side’s defence with his pace and flair.

His contribution came in the 82nd minute when he instinctively tapped home Chelsea’s sixth goal of the afternoon, a strike confirmed after a brief VAR review for offside.

Before his goal, Estevao delivered a pinpoint corner to the far post, allowing Andrey Santos to rise above the Port Vale defence and power a header home.

In doing so, he achieved a new feat that was previously set by Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka.

According to Opta Joe, aged 18y 345d, Estevao is the youngest player to both score and assist in an FA Cup game for a Premier League side since Bukayo Saka for Arsenal against Bournemouth in January 2020 [18y 144d].

Since arriving at Stamford Bridge, Estevao Willian has shattered several milestones.

He’s become the youngest Brazilian to score in the Premier League, the youngest Chelsea player to ever find the net in the Champions League, and the most prolific teenager in a single season for the club during the Premier League era.

Estevao Willian’s stats against Port Vale

Estevao had two shots on target, 10 shots in the opposition’s box, missed two big chances, 59 touches, a passing accuracy percentage of 84, one assist, created four chances, one out of two accurate crosses, one tackle five recoveries, won five of his nine duels and was fouled twice.

He even picked up the Man of the Match award for his performance, hopefully setting the tone for what is to come for the rest of the season.

All stats via FotMob.

Enzo Fernandez was seen watching Chelsea's FA Cup tie from the stands after the Argentine began a club imposed two-match suspension.

 Enzo Fernandez was seen watching Chelsea's FA Cup tie from the stands after the Argentine began a club imposed two-match suspension.

Fernandez was sanctioned by the club over comments during the international break, in which he appeared to advocate for a move to Real Madrid.

The 25-year-old, who is Chelsea's vice-captain, appeared in good spirits as he was seen laughing with Marc Cucurella behind the bench.

Cucurella began the FA Cup quarter-final from the bench, with the Spaniard having avoided a sanction for an interview he gave during the international break.

Cucurella had seemingly criticised Chelsea's transfer strategy and the former manager Enzo Maresca's departure from the club.

Fernandez and Cucurella watched on as Chelsea made the perfect start at Stamford Bridge, with Jorrel Hato giving the Blues a second-minute lead. 

Explaining Fernandez's suspension on Friday, head coach Liam Rosenior said: 'As a football club, with me as part of that process, we've made a decision.'

'He won't be available for tomorrow's game and he won't be available for Manchester City on Sunday. For Enzo, it's disappointing to speak in that way.

'What I will say about Enzo is in terms of him as a character, as a person, I've got no bad words to say about him,' his manager continued. 'But I think a line was crossed in terms of our culture and what we want to build. So we had to make a sanction and that was a decision we've made.

'As a character, as a person, as a player, I have the utmost respect for Enzo Fernandez. What he's achieved in his career, the player that he is, he's frustrated because he wanted Chelsea Football Club to be successful this year.

'He still wants that and we still count him. In terms of the decision, I've said this from day one, it's not all about just me. It's not all about the sporting directors or the ownership or the players. 

'We are aligned in every decision that we make. So it was a joint decision. I'm saying that the door is not closed on Enzo. That's very important. It's a sanction.

'You have to protect, especially this football club, it's a winning football club with traditions of success. You have to protect that culture. I think in terms of that, the line was crossed in the international break.'

Addressing Cucurella's comments, Rosenior added: 'I had a fantastic conversation with Marc yesterday, half an hour in my office.

'I want players, I've said to them from day one, if they've got any issue with how we do things, to come and speak to me and speak to sporting directors.

'My disappointment in Marc's interview is where it went to. I think he should have spoken to us first about the things that he's feeling. I want players to feel like they can speak openly and honestly for the benefit of the football club. Those conversations we've had with Reece James, that's why Reece has signed a new contract, because he believes in where we're going. 

'As a football club, we know we need to improve, myself included. We actually know what we're going to do in the summer to achieve those objectives.

'Everybody knows Marc Cucurella, knows his character. He's a great character, he's passionate, he wants to do well. He did a long interview where he spoke with passion, he spoke his mind. 

'Yesterday, when I was in the office with him for half an hour, I wanted to remind him "you can come and speak to me, you can be honest with me and you can be honest with the club about what you want." That takes time. 

'I've been here for two-and-a-half months. We've played 20 games. So to build those relationships and those connections takes time. But Marc is fully committed, he wants to be here. He's made that very, very clear to me. And he actually believes in where we're moving forward.'

Fernandez's agent Javier Pastore defended his client on Friday, after news of his suspension was announced.

Pastore told the Athletic: 'The punishment is completely unfair — banning the player for two matches, which moreover are also absolutely crucial for Chelsea because qualification for the Champions League is at stake and he is one of the team’s most important players.

'I think it’s far too harsh given Chelsea’s current situation, and there’s no real reason or justification for why he has been banned.'

Pastore also insisted the interview was blown out of proportion and said: 'We don’t understand the punishment because he doesn’t mention any club or say he wants to leave Chelsea, far from it; he only mentions Madrid, the city, because he was asked which European city he’d like to live in one day.' 

Liam Rosenior's no-risk strategy pays off as Blues HUGE WIN -Chelsea 7-0 Port Vale -ease pressure on under-fire boss after difficult week by cruising into FA Cup semi-finals

Chelsea produced a ruthless and clinical performance to thrash League One side Port Vale 7-0 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon, booking their place in the Emirates FA Cup semi-finals and delivering a much-needed boost to head coach Liam Rosenior following a turbulent week.

In a dominant display that showcased both control and attacking flair, the Blues scored through six different players plus an own goal, keeping a clean sheet and never allowing their visitors a single shot on target. The result ends a worrying run of form and provides welcome breathing space for Rosenior, who has faced mounting scrutiny amid recent Premier League setbacks and off-field noise.

Jorrel Hato opened the scoring in just the second minute with a composed finish, setting the tone for what would become a one-sided contest. João Pedro doubled the advantage on 25 minutes, before a Jordan Lawrence-Gabriel own goal just before half-time made it 3-0 at the break. Chelsea maintained their intensity after the interval, with Tosin Adarabioyo heading home powerfully on 57 minutes, Andrey Santos adding a fifth from a corner on 69 minutes, Estêvão Willian striking in the 82nd minute, and substitute Alejandro Garnacho converting a late penalty in the 90+2nd minute to complete the rout.

The victory was built on a disciplined, no-risk approach from Rosenior. Chelsea controlled possession, minimised transitions, and exploited Port Vale’s defensive vulnerabilities with patient build-up and sharp finishing. Cole Palmer, captaining the side, orchestrated play effectively from midfield, while the backline – marshalled by the likes of Wesley Fofana and Tosin – remained solid throughout.

Speaking after the match, Rosenior expressed quiet satisfaction with the execution of his game plan. “The players followed the instructions to the letter – stay organised, control the game, and take our chances when they come. Today was about professionalism and focus. We needed a response after a difficult week, and the lads delivered that,” he said.

The result arrives at a pivotal moment for the 41-year-old head coach, appointed in January 2026 on a long-term deal. Recent Premier League form had seen Chelsea slip into a concerning slump, with questions raised about tactics, squad harmony, and Rosenior’s ability to steady the ship at one of English football’s biggest clubs. A heavy defeat earlier in the week had intensified the pressure, with sections of the media and fanbase voicing frustration.

Yet on Saturday, the squad responded emphatically. Young talents and established stars alike contributed, highlighting the depth and potential within the Chelsea dressing room. The clean sheet was particularly pleasing, addressing defensive frailties that had been evident in recent outings.

Port Vale, backed by a vocal travelling support of around 6,000 fans, arrived with the spirit that had carried them this far in the competition but were simply outclassed by Premier League quality and organisation. They failed to trouble goalkeeper Robert Sánchez, and their cup run ended with dignity but without a competitive foothold.

With this win, Chelsea advance to the FA Cup semi-finals, to be played at Wembley Stadium later this month. The draw will take place following the conclusion of the remaining quarter-final tie, offering the Blues another shot at silverware in a season that has otherwise tested their resilience.

Rosenior’s pragmatic, low-risk strategy – emphasising structure and efficiency over unnecessary flair against lower-league opposition – proved highly effective. It allowed key players to gain valuable minutes and confidence while protecting others ahead of a demanding run of fixtures.

As the international break approaches, this comprehensive victory provides Chelsea with positive momentum and a platform to regroup. For Rosenior, it is a statement of intent: under pressure, his side can still deliver the kind of commanding performance expected at Stamford Bridge.

**Match Details**  

**Chelsea (4-2-3-1):** Sánchez; Gusto (Acheampong 85'), Fofana, Tosin, Hato; Andrey Santos, Lavia (Kavuma-McQueen 78'); Estêvão, Palmer (c) (Essugo 60'), Neto (Garnacho 61'); João Pedro (Delap 60').  

**Substitutes not used:** Sharman-Lowe, Sarr, Cucurella, Caicedo.  

**Goals:** Hato 2', João Pedro 25', Lawrence-Gabriel (og) 42', Tosin 57', Andrey Santos 69', Estêvão 82', Garnacho 90+2' (pen).  

**Port Vale:** Line-up not detailed in full reports; no shots on target recorded.  

**Referee:** Farai Hallam.  

**Attendance:** Not specified, but Stamford Bridge was near capacity with strong home support.

Watch: It's quarter-final time! 🕰️

 We know Port Vale have had a tough season in League One, but cup football is different. They knocked out good teams to get here, and they’ll come with nothing to lose. For us, it’s a huge opportunity. The FA Cup has a special place in this club’s history — we’re eight-time winners — and we want to give our fans another deep run. The squad is motivated, the atmosphere tomorrow will be electric, and we’re ready.

It's quarter-final time! 🕰️#CFC | #EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/uN6eA4G3zX

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) April 4, 2026

Liam Rosenior confirms new contracts set to be announced for star players

Chelsea Head Coach **Liam Rosenior** has delivered a timely boost to supporters by indicating that several important first-team players are on the verge of committing their long-term futures to the club through new contract extensions.

Speaking during a recent press engagement, Rosenior expressed confidence that contract renewals for key squad members would be finalised in the coming weeks. This development comes as the Blues look to build stability and continuity amid a challenging period that has included a dip in results and occasional disciplinary matters on the pitch.

Since taking charge in January 2026 on a long-term deal running until 2032, Rosenior has emphasised the importance of creating a settled environment at Stamford Bridge. The former defender, who knows the demands of Premier League football from his playing days, has prioritised squad harmony and clear direction as Chelsea navigate the remainder of the season.

“These players have shown real quality and commitment to the Chelsea project,” Rosenior noted. “Securing their futures is a clear signal of our ambition and the belief we have in the group we are building together. It’s about creating a foundation where everyone understands the direction we are heading.”

The news arrives against the backdrop of recent on-field frustrations, including a run of inconsistent performances and a disciplinary record that has seen Chelsea feature prominently in the Premier League’s fair play considerations at times this campaign. Incidents involving individual players have drawn scrutiny, yet the club maintains that such matters are being addressed internally with a focus on accountability, improvement, and collective responsibility.

Despite these hurdles, the club’s hierarchy and coaching staff remain aligned on a clear strategy: blending youthful talent with experienced performers while rewarding those who embody the values required to compete at the highest level. Recent examples, such as the extension agreed with captain Reece James, underscore this commitment to retaining core leaders.

Chelsea fans, who have endured fluctuating fortunes in recent months, are likely to welcome the update as a sign of proactive planning behind the scenes. With important fixtures ahead in the Premier League and domestic cups, the potential retention of influential squad members — understood to include established internationals who have played central roles this season — could provide fresh momentum as the campaign enters its decisive phase.

The club will provide further details on specific contract extensions as and when they are formally completed. In the meantime, the focus remains firmly on preparation for upcoming matches, with Rosenior and his staff working closely with the squad to address recent shortcomings and restore the standards expected at Chelsea Football Club.

Sam Kerr has cast fresh doubt over her future at Chelsea

 Matildas captain Sam Kerr has cast fresh doubt over her future at Chelsea after reports emerged she is set to join NWSL expansion side Denver Summit FC.

The 32-year-old striker is out of contract at the end of the season and has been heavily linked with a return to the United States, where she previously dominated as one of the league's biggest stars.

But Kerr appeared to push back on the speculation in a cryptic social media post, writing: 'Don't believe everything you read in the media man, they know a decision before me'.

It remains unclear whether Kerr was denying the reports outright or expressing frustration at the timing of the leak.

The transfer speculation intensified just hours after Chelsea were knocked out of the Women's Champions League, falling 3-2 on aggregate to Arsenal in a quarter-final defeat that has deepened scrutiny on the club's season.

Kerr has spent six seasons at Chelsea, scoring 106 goals in 147 appearances and helping deliver five Women's Super League titles and three FA Cups. 

However, her role has diminished since returning from a serious ACL injury, with the striker limited to just two league starts this campaign.

Despite Chelsea's struggles in front of goal, Kerr has found it difficult to reclaim a consistent starting position, raising questions about her long-term future at the club.

Reports suggest Denver Summit FC - a new NWSL franchise backed by NFL great Peyton Manning and Olympic skiing champion Mikaela Shiffrin - is preparing a marquee move to secure Kerr as a headline signing.

The club has already begun building a competitive squad for its inaugural season, and landing Kerr would represent one of the most significant signings in its short history.

A move to the United States would also carry personal significance for Kerr, allowing her to base herself closer to her wife, American international Kristie Mewis. The couple welcomed their first child, Jagger, last year.

Kerr's history in the NWSL further strengthens the appeal of a return, having been a two-time MVP and the league's all-time leading goalscorer during her previous stint in the competition.

While her club future remains unresolved, Kerr continues to play a central role for Australia. She recently scored four goals during the Women's Asian Cup and has been named to captain the Matildas in an upcoming international series in Kenya.

For Chelsea, the prospect of losing one of the greatest forwards in women's football on a free transfer would mark a significant turning point, particularly as the club enters a period of transition following a disappointing campaign.

Whether Kerr stays in London or returns to the United States, her next move looms as one of the biggest decisions of her decorated career.

Source: DAILYMAIL

Alejandro Garnacho confirms new romance with model girlfriend

 Chelsea star Alejandro Garnacho has confirmed his romance with his new Spanish model girlfriend on Instagram. 

Garnacho, 21, shared images from his recent time off during the international break, including one of influencer Adriana Lobaz.

He posted a snap of her eating popcorn at the cinema, seemingly confirming the couple are in a relationship. 

Others in the gallery included Garnacho with his two-year-old son Enzo, who he shares with former partner Eva Garcia. The pair separated last summer. 

Of Garnacho's new relationship with Lobaz, Spanish journalist Roberto Antolin previously shared more details on Mitre Live, claiming that the winger and the influencer had moved in together.

'There's a new development in the relationship between Garnacho and this Lobaz girl,' he said, via Marca. 'She's living with him in London, and he's given her a credit card with no spending limit, so she can buy whatever she wants. 

'They travelled back and forth between Madrid and London on a private flight.

'And let me tell you, Garnacho doesn't want to meet Adriana's family and he clearly snubbed them,' he alleged. 'She wanted a rich boyfriend, and then Garnacho appeared. 

'It's going to be a fling, and he doesn't want anything serious. He wants to sleep with stunning women.' 

Garnacho and Garcia had been together for over four years before they went their separate ways, with fans first suspecting a rift when the couple unfollowed each other on Instagram last July. 

The Argentine's club form has been mixed this season and Chelsea are currently battling to qualify for next season's Champions League. 

A disastrous spell before the international break saw them hammered over two legs by PSG, beaten by Newcastle and then thrashed at Goodison Park by Everton. 

Liam Rosenior is under mounting pressure and there have been protests from the fans directed towards the club's owners BlueCo. 

Only this week, it was revealed that the club spent almost double any other Premier League club on agents fees.

A report released by the FA has disclosed that the west London outfit splashed out a staggering £65.1m on payments to representatives in the space of 12 months, which far outstrips the £38.4m of second highest spenders Aston Villa.

Chelsea also announced a record pre-tax loss of £262.4m during the 2024-25 season, which is the biggest annual loss ever recorded in English football. 

It far surpassed the previous record loss of £197.5m posted by City in 2010-11 as they sought to close the gap on the leading clubs following their Abu Dhabi takeover. 

Source: DAILYMAIL

Chelsea Head Coach Liam Rosenior Addresses Questions on Youth-Led Strategy

Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has reaffirmed the club’s commitment to its long-term youth development philosophy while acknowledging the need for smart adjustments to the process as the squad evolves.

Speaking ahead of this evening’s Emirates FA Cup quarter-final against Port Vale at Stamford Bridge, Rosenior was asked whether Chelsea would change or move away from its youth-led strategy in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Rosenior responded: “When you have a process, you have to adjust your process to get to where you want to be. You’ll see. You’ll see in the actions we take rather than the words I speak.”

The 41-year-old Englishman, appointed as Head Coach in January 2026 on a contract until 2032, has consistently emphasised the importance of integrating and developing young talent since his arrival from sister club RC Strasbourg. His appointment was widely seen as a natural fit for Chelsea’s multi-club model and its focus on building a competitive squad with a strong core of academy graduates and high-potential signings.

Rosenior added context on the club’s summer plans: “We are looking to bring in players with emotional stability and good characters — players who, in difficult moments, can understand what it takes to win. Bringing more experience into this group can help, but it must align with the identity and culture we are building.”

He stressed that the club’s approach remains rooted in giving opportunities to young players who demonstrate the desire to learn, improve, and embrace the team’s tactical identity. Rosenior has previously drawn inspiration from Manchester United’s famous ‘Class of ’92’, highlighting the potential for a young Chelsea squad to grow into multiple trophy winners under sustained belief and the right environment.

“Age is one thing; it’s your ability to learn and want to be engaged in something,” Rosenior has said in earlier comments. “I will give my young players a chance to show and to grow because potential is amazing when it’s realised.”

### Current Context

The current squad features a significant number of young talents who have been given opportunities under Rosenior’s leadership. The club continues to balance this youth focus with the demands of competing in the Premier League, FA Cup, and other competitions.

Director of Football and Technical Director **Paul Winstanley** has supported this vision, noting that the multi-club structure allows for the careful development and integration of promising players from across the network, including those who have already impressed at Strasbourg.

Rosenior concluded: “This is about the club being successful now and in the long-term. We want to win now, but we are also building something sustainable. The process involves continuous evolution — adjusting where necessary while staying true to our core principles of bravery, intensity, and fearless football.”

Chelsea Football Club remains fully committed to a clear playing style and squad-building approach that prioritises talent development, tactical understanding, and character. Further details on summer recruitment will be communicated in due course as plans progress.

The club thanks supporters for their continued passion and looks forward to a strong performance this evening at Stamford Bridge as we chase success in the FA Cup.

Preview: FA Cup Quarter-Final – Chelsea vs Port Vale

Chelsea welcomes League One side Port Vale to Stamford Bridge this evening for a Emirates FA Cup quarter-final tie, with kick-off scheduled for 17:15 BST.

The Blues, currently sitting sixth in the Premier League, enter the match with silverware firmly in their sights after their UEFA Champions League campaign ended earlier in the season. Victory tonight would book Chelsea’s place in the semi-finals of the famous competition for the first time since reaching the final in 2022, and mark a significant step towards ending an eight-year wait for an FA Cup triumph (last won in 2018).

Head Coach **Liam Rosenior** said: “This is a huge opportunity for us. The FA Cup has a special place in English football, and reaching the semi-finals at Stamford Bridge would mean a lot to everyone connected with the club. We know Port Vale have earned their place here by knocking out strong opposition, and we will treat them with the utmost respect. Our focus is on delivering a strong performance and progressing in the competition.”

### Team News and Selection

Enzo Fernández will not be available for selection following a club disciplinary decision. The Argentina international has been ruled out of this evening’s match (and next weekend’s Premier League fixture against Manchester City) after comments made during the recent international break. Fernández continues to train with the first-team squad at Cobham.

Rosenior added: “We’ve addressed the situation internally. Enzo remains part of the group in training, but he won’t feature tonight. We move forward as a squad and concentrate fully on the task at hand.”

The Chelsea head coach is expected to make a number of changes from recent Premier League outings, balancing squad rotation with the need for a positive result. Young talents and fringe players are likely to be given opportunities to impress, while key figures such as Cole Palmer (if fit) and others will be available.

Port Vale, currently in League One, have enjoyed a memorable run to the quarter-finals, including a notable scalp against Premier League opposition. They arrive at Stamford Bridge as underdogs but with the freedom to express themselves and cause an upset in front of a sell-out home crowd.

 Match Details

- **Date**: Saturday, 4 April 2026  

- **Kick-off**: 17:15 BST  

- **Venue**: Stamford Bridge, London  

- **Competition**: Emirates FA Cup – Quarter-Final  

- **Broadcast**: Live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, and TNT Sports 1 (UK). International coverage available via various platforms.

Chelsea hold a strong historical record in home FA Cup ties against lower-division sides and have won their last six quarter-final matches in the competition. However, Rosenior has stressed the importance of maintaining concentration and professionalism throughout the 90 minutes (and beyond, if extra time is required).

Director of Football and Technical Director **Paul Winstanley** commented: “The FA Cup remains a priority for the club. We have a talented squad capable of competing on multiple fronts, and we are determined to give this competition the respect it deserves. Supporters can expect a committed performance as we aim to reach Wembley once again.”

Tickets for the match sold out quickly, reflecting the strong support from Chelsea fans eager to see their team progress deep into the competition.

Chelsea Football Club would like to thank all supporters for their continued backing and encourages everyone at Stamford Bridge this evening to create a vibrant atmosphere as we chase silverware.

Further updates, including team line-ups, will be available via the club’s official channels closer to kick-off.

Chelsea will allow Enzo Fernandez to train despite suspension

Cobalt Roar confirm that midfielder Enzo Fernández will be permitted to train with the first-team squad as normal, despite a club-imposed two-match suspension from competitive fixtures.

Following recent comments made by the player during the international break that referenced his future, the club, in consultation with Head Coach Liam Rosenior, took the decision to sanction Fernández by excluding him from selection for Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final against Port Vale and next weekend’s Premier League fixture against Manchester City.

The sanction was implemented to uphold the standards and culture the club is committed to building at Stamford Bridge. However, the club has made clear that this is a disciplinary measure limited to match selection and does not extend to training.

Head Coach Liam Rosenior said: “I spoke with Enzo an hour ago. As a football club, with me as part of the decision, he won’t be available for tomorrow’s game or Manchester City next Sunday. He’ll still be here, he’ll still train, he’s still part of the group. It’s disappointing for Enzo to speak that way. I’ve got no bad words to say about him but a line was crossed in terms of our culture and what we want to build. The door is not closed on Enzo. It’s a sanction. You have to protect the culture.”

Fernández, who joined Chelsea from Benfica in 2023 for a then British-record fee, remains an important member of the squad. The 25-year-old Argentina international continues to train at the club’s Cobham training ground alongside his teammates and is expected to be available for selection again following the completion of the two-match suspension.

Chelsea Football Club reiterates that Enzo Fernández is not for sale. The player is under contract until 2032, and any potential departure would only be considered in the event of an offer significantly exceeding the club’s valuation of over £100 million.

Director of Football and Technical Director Paul Winstanley added: “Enzo is a talented player who has contributed significantly since his arrival. We expect all players to align with the club’s values both on and off the pitch. This situation has been addressed internally, and we look forward to Enzo continuing to train and prepare as part of the first-team group.”

The club will make no further comment on the matter at this time and asks for respect for the privacy of all parties involved as we focus on the upcoming fixtures.

Liam Rosenior hits back at his Chelsea critics

 Speaking ahead of the Port Vale game, Liam Rosenior insists that Chelsea are in a good position and that there is currently no crisis at all at Stamford Bridge.

“My record in the Premier League since I joined the club, we are fourth in the league.

“There is a noise around the football club that we are in a crisis, that I am out of my depth, that I talk nonsense, I know all of the noise.

“It doesn’t affect what is inside of here and that is what the players need to know as well.”

By labeling the growing unrest as mere noise and a false crisis, Liam Rosenior risks alienating a fanbase that has just watched their side endure four successive defeats and a humiliating 8–2 aggregate exit.

The fact that Chelsea are fourth in the league since his arrival offers a mathematical shield, but this is more down to how bad other teams have been as well as the Blues. Aston Villa, Liverpool and Manchester United have all dropped points regularly of late in the race for a top-five spot.

It’s a him-versus-the-world narrative that rarely ends well at Stamford Bridge, especially for a manager with no prior Premier League experience. By dismissing legitimate concerns, Rosenior has inadvertently heightened the pressure, providing more ammunition for his critics.