Joao Pedro has highlighted the deep bond shared within the Chelsea squad as he gives his backing to Filip Jorgensen

 Joao Pedro has given an interview to Viaplay and Bold have shared his comments, where he speaks highly of his relationship with Jorgensen off the field.

His lowest point came in the Champions League round-of-16 first leg against Paris Saint-Germain, where Jorgensen was publicly lamented for the mistakes he made.

The situation worsened just days later when Jorgensen was forced to undergo minor surgery on a persistent groin injury, an operation that has sidelined him for several weeks.

Currently working toward a mid-April return, Jorgensen faces a steep uphill battle to reclaim his spot and prove he can be the long-term solution in a position the club is already looking to upgrade.

“He’s going through a tough time right now because he’s injured. So, we’re trying to help him. He’s a really good guy, and both on and off the field, he’s very professional. He tries to help everyone.

“We’re very close because our girlfriends also try to hang out together. Off the field, we’re always joking around with each other. So, we’re very close.”

However, it may be short lived, as Jorgensen is supposedly seeking an exit this summer.

Source: The Chelsea Chronicles

Liam Rosenior Pushes for Valentín Barco Signing as Chelsea Prepare Six-Year Deal Amid Midfield Planning

Chelsea fc manager Liam Rosenior is actively driving the pursuit of Argentinian midfielder Valentín Barco, with the club preparing a six-year contract as they look to strengthen their squad for the 2026/27 season and beyond.

Rosenior, who previously worked closely with Barco during his time as head coach of Strasbourg, is eager to reunite with the versatile 21-year-old and integrate him into the Chelsea midfield. Sources close to the club indicate that Chelsea have taken particular notice of Barco’s impressive performances against top opposition, highlighting his technical quality, tactical intelligence, and potential to thrive in the Premier League.

A six-year deal is understood to be on the table for Barco, who would join from Chelsea’s sister club Strasbourg on a permanent transfer. The move would mark one of the first key additions under Rosenior’s leadership as he shapes the squad according to his vision.

The interest in Barco also comes amid ongoing considerations around the club’s midfield structure. Recent internal discussions have prompted Chelsea to evaluate long-term options, including potential successors in key positions, particularly in light of recent events involving current captain Enzo Fernández.

“Valentín is a player I know extremely well and one who has developed significantly under my guidance,” Rosenior is reported to have told the club’s recruitment team. “His performances this season, especially against the bigger sides, have shown exactly the kind of quality and mentality we need at Chelsea.”

Chelsea’s hierarchy views Barco as a high-potential addition who can provide depth, competition, and future-proofing in central and left-sided midfield roles. The player has already expressed his desire to join the Blues and is excited by the prospect of working again with Rosenior at Stamford Bridge.

The club remains focused on building a competitive squad capable of challenging on all fronts next season, with further transfer activity expected in the summer window.

Javier Pastore, Agent of Enzo Fernández, Confirms Full Alignment with Chelsea Football Club

Javier Pastore, the representative of Chelsea midfielder and Argentina international Enzo Fernández, today issued a statement clarifying that any recent comments have been fully resolved with the club and that Enzo remains fully committed to Chelsea.

“We’re on the same page with Chelsea. We made peace yesterday. There were never really any problems. We cleared the air,” said Pastore.

Pastore emphasised that Fernández’s recent public comments were not intended to create any disruption within the squad or club.

“His statements were without any intention of causing problems at Chelsea,” Pastore continued. “He’s the captain, one of the team’s leaders, and he’s shown his best form on the pitch this season. Enzo is completely focused on performing at the highest level for Chelsea and helping the team achieve its objectives.”

The clarification comes after what both parties describe as a minor misunderstanding that has now been amicably addressed. Fernández, who joined Chelsea in 2023, has been a key figure in the squad this campaign, wearing the captain’s armband on multiple occasions and delivering consistent performances in the Premier League and European competitions.

Chelsea Football Club declined to comment further, stating that internal matters have been resolved and the focus remains on the remainder of the season.

Vote for Chelsea's best Stamford Bridge moment against Man City

 Chelsea are back in Premier League action this weekend as we take on Manchester City in a crunch league fixture for both sides. Ahead of the game, we’ve picked out eight memorable moments the Blues have enjoyed against the Citizens at Stamford Bridge, and we want you to vote for your favourite!

Our selections all come from action in the Premier League era, and there are plenty of familiar faces involved, from Dennis Wise to Didier Drogba, and Christian Pulisic to Cole Palmer.

Make sure you watch the video, read through the moments for extra context and then head to the Chelsea Official App to vote for your favourite!

A Wise worldie | August 1994

Surely one of Chelsea’s best goals in the early years of the Premier League, this outstanding chip – on his supposedly weaker left foot – epitomised the undervalued technical quality of captain Dennis Wise.

Lamps lets Drog free | October 2007

The highlight of an emphatic 6-0 victory over Sven-Goran Eriksson’s Man City in the 2007/08 campaign was our second goal, when a sublime outside-the-boot pass from Frank Lampard split the visitors open and released Didier Drogba to finish with aplomb.

How did he score that?! | March 2009

The next goal on our shortlist comes from the right boot (or was it shin?!) of Michael Essien, who improbably hooked a first-time finish into the top corner when connecting with Lampard’s quickly-taken free-kick.

A touch of Brazilian magic | March 2011

The first of two consecutives Goal of the Season winners scored by Ramires was a jinking effort in a 2-0 victory at home to Man City in 2010/11, with the Brazilian showing off his samba skills by dancing between several bewildered defenders before firing past Joe Hart.

Torres at the death | October 2013

A tight contest between two title rivals looked like it was going to end in a 1-1 draw until, in the 90th minute, a defensive mix-up allowed Fernando Torres to place the ball into an empty and secure a vital three points.

David Luiz stoops to conquer | December 2018

Maurizio Sarri’s Blues inflicted a first league defeat of the season on champions Man City with David Luiz’s superb looping header securing the points after N’Golo Kante had given us a first-half lead against the run of play.

Pulisic lights up empty Bridge | June 2020

In our first behind-closed-doors home fixture during the pandemic, Christian Pulisic netted a superb solo effort in a 2-1 win. The only shame was that supporters weren’t inside the Bridge to enjoy it.

Palmer’s ice-cool pen | November 2023

The most exciting Premier League fixture between the sides ended in a 4-4 draw in November 2023 after Cole Palmer – the coolest man inside the Bridge – calmly converted a stoppage-time penalty against his former club.

VOTE NOW

Source: Chelsea fc

Chelsea have now made a shocking decision on the future of Alejandro Garnacho

 Chelsea have now made a shocking decision on the future of Alejandro Garnacho. The Argentine forward joined the Blues last summer in a £40 million deal from Manchester United.

However, he has failed to live up to the expectations of the club. In over 35 appearances so far for the club, the Argentine has made just 12 goal contributions.

But in 20 Premier League appearances, he has just five goal contributions (one goal and four assists). That is why in recent times, his game time has gone down.

This has also raised questions about his position in the Argentine World Cup squad. Now, the Blues have also made a decision on the player.

Next summer, the Blues might be open to selling many of their top stars in order to rebuild the squad under Liam Rosenior.

The former Strasbourg manager inherited the squad from Enzo Maresca, and there are a number of players who are not in his plans.

According to journalist Simon Phillips on his Substack, Alejandro Garnacho could be one of the marquee departures from the club next summer.

The Chelsea board are now open to selling the player they signed last summer. As per the report, the Blues believe they will have significant interest in the 21-year-old.

So, with Garnacho in the market next summer, there will be clubs not only from Europe but also from Argentina looking to sign the winger.

Source: Transfer News Live

Chelsea make Josh Acheampong stance clear: Not for sale

Chelsea fc wishes to clarify its position regarding academy graduate Josh Acheampong amid recent speculation linking the defender with potential transfers away from Stamford Bridge.

The 19-year-old defender broke into Chelsea’s side during Enzo Maresca’s stint as manager, with the England U21 international one of many to benefit from Chelsea’s Europa Conference League triumph.

Chelsea has received interest from several clubs, including approaches in the January transfer window, but has consistently rejected any enquiries. The club has no intention of entertaining offers for the England Under-21 international this summer or in the foreseeable future.

In press conferences, Rosenior has praised Acheampong and declared himself excited for the player’s future. But on the pitch, he decided to start Mamadou Sarr against PSG over the teenage defender.

Rosenior has even said he has spoken to Acheampong’s family, and has a long-term plan in place: “Josh is an amazing talent. I’ve got to meet him and his parents. Josh has got immense potential.”

But as the game time continues to dwindle and Chelsea look set to prioritise a new centre-back in the summer, Acheampong must realise something. At any other club, he would be first choice right now.

Rosenior will be tasked with attempting to keep Acheampong happy. Perhaps, a loan may sit all parties involved. But only if it is made abundantly clear that Acheampong is to remain a Chelsea player.

Chelsea Football Club will continue to focus on building a competitive squad that blends youthful talent with experience, and Josh Acheampong is very much part of that vision.

Gary Cahill defends the current Chelsea squad

 Former Chelsea captain Gary Cahill has voiced a staunch defense of the club’s current trajectory, claiming that while inconsistency remains, the young group has already proven their worth.

His Chelsea career began with a whirlwind six months, culminating in a heroic performance in the 2012 Champions League final, where he played through the pain of a hamstring injury.

Over 290 appearances, Cahill evolved from a reliable partner for John Terry into the club’s captain and a vocal leader in the dressing room. His trophy haul includes two Premier League titles, two FA Cups, two Europa Leagues, and a League Cup.

In an interview with the official Chelsea website, Gary Cahill was actually very complimentary of the owners building a young squad and what that group has achieved so far.

“A number of years ago, this was a really young squad put together. It seemed like all the changes were happening at once, the ownership etc. And it was clear that they were building a young squad to develop.

“So I felt like I was always trying to preach patience, be patient. Because going out and getting lots of experienced players like the dressing room I walked into is not always easy.

“Also, if the philosophy is we are going to grow this young squad, then you need to give it time. And when I look at it now, I feel as though the trajectory is going this way. Club World Cup, the UEFA Conference that they won. Two trophies the young group got their hands on, which I think is massive for the development and now they’ve got a few more years of experience.

“They’re not far off, it’s just at the minute a bit of inconsistency.”

With the squad’s average age dipping as low as 21.5 in recent starting lineups, the lack of a veteran has contributed to a record-breaking ten red cards this season.

Gary Cahill recently highlighted that while the project has yielded silverware like the Conference League, the path to success is blocked by a lack of battle-hardened leaders.

By moving away from a youth-only policy to target Premier League-proven stars, the hierarchy aims to fill this gap, and they’re finally planning to do so.

It comes as a surprise to see Cahill almost defend the owners’ point on having a young squad, as fans have been calling for experience for months and possibly even years, since Thiago Silva’s departure.

Chris Kavanagh Confirmed as Referee for Chelsea’s Premier League Showdown Against Manchester City

The Premier League has today confirmed that Chris Kavanagh will officiate Chelsea’s crucial home fixture against Manchester City this Sunday, 12 April 2026, at Stamford Bridge (kick-off 4:30pm UK time).

Kavanagh, a highly experienced Select Group referee who has been on the Premier League panel since 2017 and on FIFA’s international list since 2019, will take charge of what promises to be one of the most high-profile matches of Matchweek 32. He will be supported by assistant referees Dan Cook and Ian Hussin, with Michael Oliver serving as fourth official and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) team to be confirmed closer to the fixture.

Liam Rosenior’s Chelsea side head into the contest navigating a disciplinary tightrope. The Blues have faced repeated scrutiny over their discipline this season, including a recent internal sanction on vice-captain Enzo Fernández (who remains a doubt for selection after comments that led to his omission from recent matches) and earlier red cards that have left the squad walking a fine line with suspensions. With several key players sitting on multiple yellow cards, Rosenior’s men must balance their high-intensity, attacking style against the risk of further bookings or send-offs in a fixture that could have significant implications for both teams’ top-four ambitions.

Speaking ahead of the appointment, a Premier League spokesperson said: “Chris Kavanagh is one of our most reliable and consistent officials. His experience in big matches makes him the ideal choice for a fixture of this magnitude.”

The match pits two of English football’s modern powerhouses against each other at a pivotal moment in the 2025/26 Premier League season. Chelsea, under Rosenior since January, have shown flashes of their attacking potential but must tighten up defensively and disciplinarily to compete with a Manchester City side still challenging at the top of the table.

**Recent Head-to-Head Record (Chelsea FC vs Manchester City)**

The two clubs have a rich and competitive history, but Manchester City have held the upper hand in recent encounters. Here are the most recent competitive results (all Premier League unless stated):

- **4 January 2026** – Manchester City 1-1 Chelsea (Premier League)  

- **25 January 2025** – Manchester City 3-1 Chelsea (Premier League)  

- **18 August 2024** – Chelsea 0-2 Manchester City (Premier League)  

- **20 April 2024** – Manchester City 1-0 Chelsea (FA Cup semi-final)  

- **17 February 2024** – Manchester City 1-1 Chelsea (Premier League)  

- **12 November 2023** – Chelsea 4-4 Manchester City (Premier League)  

In their last six competitive meetings, Chelsea have recorded 0 wins, 3 draws, and 3 defeats, scoring 7 goals while conceding 12. The last Chelsea victory over City in any competition dates back further, underscoring the challenge Rosenior’s side face this weekend.

Tickets for the Stamford Bridge clash remain in high demand, with the match expected to be a sell-out. Full coverage, including team news and live updates, will be available on the official Chelsea FC website and Premier League platforms.

Chelsea Enter the Race for Highly-Rated 18-Year-Old Werder Bremen Centre-Back Karim Coulibaly

Chelsea Football Club has confirmed its interest in talented young defender Karim Coulibaly as the club continues to strengthen its long-term defensive options ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 18-year-old German centre-back, who has broken into the Werder Bremen first team this season and already established himself as a regular in the Bundesliga, is viewed by the club as one of the most promising young defensive talents in European football. Standing at 1.91m (6ft 3in), Coulibaly combines physical presence, composure on the ball, and strong aerial ability with impressive technical development for his age.

Chelsea sources describe Coulibaly as a player they have monitored closely for some time and one who has particularly impressed the club’s recruitment team with his rapid progress this season. He is understood to be a 100% concrete target for the summer, with the Blues having already made contact with the player’s representatives to express their admiration and explore the possibility of a move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea Sources Attribute Top Agent-Fee Ranking to High Transfer Volume; Club Stresses Market-Standard Commissions and Desire for Greater Efficiency

Sources at Chelsea Football Club have responded to the latest independent ranking of Premier League clubs by total agent and intermediary fees, confirming that the club’s position at the top of the list stems primarily from the unusually high volume of transfers completed over the past 12 months.

Chelsea conducted more than 30 incoming and outgoing player transactions (including permanent deals, loans with obligations, and extensions involving intermediary involvement) between April 2025 and March 2026. This level of activity was driven by the club’s continued squad evolution, the integration of younger talents from the academy and international markets, and the strategic management of player contracts to maintain compliance with Premier League Profit and Sustainability Regulations.

A senior Chelsea source stated:  

“The headline figure is undeniably high, but it is the direct result of the sheer number of deals we have executed. We have been far more active than most clubs in both buying and selling, which naturally increases the aggregate commission total. We are satisfied that every commission paid has been in line with — and in many cases materially below — prevailing market rates for players of similar age, profile and contract length.”

The source continued:  

“That said, it remains a list we would have preferred not to top again. While we have delivered value in every negotiation, we recognise the importance of driving greater efficiency across our recruitment and trading model. That work is already under way.”

Chelsea emphasised that the club’s approach continues to prioritise long-term value, performance on the pitch, and financial sustainability. The club has consistently maintained that its transfer strategy is designed to build a competitive, home-grown-heavy squad capable of challenging for major honours while operating within the constraints of modern football finance rules.

No individual deals or specific fee amounts were disclosed, in line with standard confidentiality practices in player transactions. The club reiterated its full compliance with all Football Association and FIFA agent regulations, including the new caps and disclosure requirements introduced in recent seasons.

Tosin on Cole Palmer leadership and striving for more

 Tosin Adarabioyo was pleased to see Cole Palmer’s influential role in the Chelsea side recognised with the captain’s armband in our last outing, with the pair now preparing to face their former club, Manchester City, this weekend at Stamford Bridge.

Tosin and Palmer were both part of the starting XI for Saturday’s resounding success in the FA Cup quarter-finals, which saw the Blues defeat Port Vale 7-0 to book our place in the last four.

Palmer captained the Blues from the start for the first time in that game, while Tosin put us four up by scoring his second goal of the season, both of which have come in the FA Cup, having also found the net against Charlton Athletic in the third round.

That left the defender, first and foremost, pleased at a job well done after booking our place in the semi-finals.

That was the objective going into the Port Vale game, that we get ourselves to Wembley, so we were pleased to do that,’ reflected Tosin.

‘The FA Cup is a huge trophy and, as long as you’re in it, then you’re in it to win it. That is what we’re trying to do.’

One moment that caught the eye during our comprehensive victory was after Tosin had found the net. After the defender's header found the bottom corner, captain for the day Palmer rushed to congratulate his team-mate, close friend and fellow Mancunian.

‘He’s my guy,’ laughed Tosin. ‘He’s always encouraging me and I’m always encouraging him, so it was nice.

‘He leads by example. You can see through his performances that he is one of our leaders and one of our best players. So it was nice to see him get the armband.’

Injuries through the season have made it challenging for Palmer to maintain the incredible highs set during his first two seasons with the Blues, but the England international's contribution and talent have never been in doubt by those at Stamford Bridge.

That is certainly the case for Tosin, who underlined our No.10’s commitment to perform at his very best for Chelsea, and the rest of the squad’s belief in his ability.

He said: ‘It’s football, people go through different spells of form. If you know Cole, you know he’s a relaxed guy, but he is ambitious and wants to be the best. That is what he’s striving for.

‘He’s a top player and always has good games, but he also knows he can always improve.

When he hits his level, he’s one of the best players in the Premier League. So we all believe that and I'm sure he has full confidence in himself.’

The next opportunity for Palmer to show what he can do will be a big one, as both he and Tosin go up against the club where they started their careers in the youth system. That takes place on Sunday, when Chelsea host Manchester City at the Bridge in the Premier League.

The defender insists personal feelings are safely stowed away, though, with the focus firmly on the task at hand and securing a positive result for the Blues.

‘We’re just looking forward to the game and getting the job done against Manchester City,’ he added. ‘Hopefully, we get the three points, but we need to prepare now and that is our focus.’

Shorts: Running towards MCI (H). 💨

 

Running towards MCI (H). 💨 pic.twitter.com/3kheXghAxL

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) April 8, 2026

The work continued for the Blues in the Cobham sunshine on Wednesday, as our weekend tussle with Manchester City edges closer into view.

 Our training ground was a hive of activity on Wednesday, as our pre-match work resumed ahead of the visit of Pep Guardiola's side, as we continue in our hunt for securing a place in the Champions League spots.

Ahead of our return to Premier League action, following our 7-0 FA Cup victory over Port Vale to secure a semi-final meeting with Leeds United last weekend, Liam Rosenior and his coaching staff were busy putting the plans in place for Sunday's clash at the Bridge.

Taking part in the session were the likes of Moises Caicedo, Alejandro Garnacho, Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro under the Surrey sunshine. Also involved were Marc Guiu, Malo Gusto, Romeo Lavia and Estevao Willian, with all of the players eyeing a spot in Rosenior's squad come the weekend.

You can scroll down and view some of the best images from today’s workout, and remember to stay tuned to the Chelsea Official App for all the build-up and latest news ahead of Sunday's meeting with City.

Source: Chelsea fc

Joao Pedro wins Chelsea Player of the Month for March 2026

 It's back-to-back Player of the Month awards for Joao Pedro, with your votes meaning the Brazilian has been named as our standout performer in March!

It was another hugely impressive month from our Brazilian forward, who featured across every game in March for the Blues and was heavily involved once again - including earning our Goal of the Month prize for last month too.

The 24-year-old netted a superb hat-trick away to Aston Villa as we recorded a fantastic 4-1 win, showcasing his clinical finishing and razor-sharp movement. Joao Pedro then made sure of our FA Cup victory at Wrexham with a fine solo effort in extra time, having come off the bench late on to help secure our place in the quarter-finals.

And his dominance on the pitch was reflected in the Player of the Month poll on the Chelsea Official App, with the striker the overwhelming winner, earning 83 per cent of your vote.

The runner-up was Enzo Fernandez, closely followed by his fellow Argentine Alejandro Garnacho, who had nine and five per cent respectively. Meanwhile, Malo Gusto completed the voting with three per cent.

Congratulations once again, JP!

Source: Chelsea fc

England Clinches Historic Fifth Champions League Spot – Premier League’s Fifth-Placed Team Guaranteed UCL Football Next Season

In a seismic boost for English football, the team finishing fifth in the 2025/26 Premier League will storm directly into the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League league phase after England mathematically secured a second successive European Performance Spot.**  

The Premier League erupted in celebration today as it was confirmed that England has unassailably claimed one of UEFA’s two additional Champions League berths for next season. The dramatic confirmation arrived on the back of Arsenal’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Sporting CP in the Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday night, pushing England’s coefficient lead beyond reach.  

This is no ordinary qualification. For the second year running, the Premier League’s relentless excellence across all three UEFA competitions has delivered an extraordinary prize: **five direct places** in the Champions League for the 2026/27 campaign. The top four remain locked in as usual, but fifth place now explodes into the spotlight with guaranteed entry to Europe’s elite 36-team league phase.  

The 2025/26 season has been a relentless European thriller for English clubs. Multiple Premier League sides have marched deep into the latter stages of the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League, racking up vital coefficient points night after night. With this latest triumph, England now sits untouchable at the summit of the UEFA association rankings with an average of 25.013 points from nine clubs.  

The race for the top five in the Premier League, already white-hot, has now been injected with pure adrenaline. With just seven pulsating matches remaining in the 2025/26 campaign, the battle for that fifth and final guaranteed Champions League place promises to be one of the most ferocious and unforgettable title races in modern football history.  

**Key Facts:**  

- **Positions 1 to 4**: Automatic qualification to the 2026/27 Champions League league phase.  

- **Position 5**: Now joins them directly – a historic reward for consistency and excellence.  

- The Champions League’s 36-team league format offers even more high-stakes European nights for English clubs.  

- Should an English club lift the 2025/26 Champions League or Europa League trophy while finishing outside the top five, the Premier League could send a staggering **six or even seven** teams to next season’s competition.