Chelsea face fierce competition for Eduardo Conceicao

 Chelsea have reportedly entered the high-stakes battle to sign Palmeiras’ latest wonderkid, Eduardo Conceicao, as the club continues its aggressive recruitment of the world’s most elite teenage talents.

The 16-year-old winger has become the subject of an intense transfer war, with The Times reporting that Chelsea are now vying with Manchester City, Barcelona, and PSG for his signature.

Conceicao, a standout for the Brazil Under-17 national team, is regarded as one of the most exciting prospects to emerge from South America since his former teammate Endrick.

While early suitors reportedly attempted to secure a deal for approximately £25 million, Palmeiras are holding out for a much higher figure.

As per the report, the Brazilian giants have protected their asset with a €100 million (£87m) release clause, though industry experts expect a compromise closer to the €40m–€50m range including performance-related add-ons.

Manchester City, under the direction of new sporting director Hugo Viana, were previously thought to be the frontrunners.

However, the entry of Chelsea and Barcelona, the latter of whom are desperate not to repeat the mistake of having missed out on the likes of Endrick and Estevao Willian, has turned the pursuit into a multi-club sprint.

There are other clubs vying for his services as well. The Daily Briefing previously reported that both Arsenal and Liverpool have had bids rejected for the exciting youngster.

Newcastle have also been linked with the Brazilian, with reports stating that the Magpies also submitted an offer to sign him.

Conceicao has already made an impact in 2026, scoring 4 goals and providing 3 assists in just seven appearances during the prestigious Copinha youth tournament.

Liam Rosenior Confirms Levi Colwill to Feature for Chelsea U21s as He Steps Up Recovery from Injury

Chelsea Head Coach Liam Rosenior has today confirmed that defender Levi Colwill will make a significant step in his return to full fitness by playing some minutes for the club’s Under-21 side tomorrow.

Colwill, who has been sidelined with a knee injury, has been working diligently through his rehabilitation programme at the club’s Cobham training base. The 22-year-old academy graduate is now poised to gain valuable match minutes as part of a carefully managed return-to-play protocol.0

Speaking ahead of the weekend’s Premier League fixtures, Rosenior said: “Levi will play some minutes with the Under-21s tomorrow, which is fantastic for him. When you have a long-term injury, to the extent of Levi’s injury, you need a long rehab period. I want to make sure he is 100 per cent right in terms of his match fitness before we consider him for our first team.”

The Head Coach added: “I’m hoping we’ll see Levi before the end of the season. He’s an outstanding player and a leader in the dressing room.”0

Colwill has made a strong impression since breaking into the first team, known for his composure on the ball, defensive solidity, and leadership qualities. His potential return would provide a timely boost to Chelsea’s defensive options as the season enters its crucial final stretch.

Chelsea U21s are scheduled to play tomorrow, with further details on the fixture available via the club’s official channels. The club will continue to provide updates on Colwill’s progress in due course and asks that the media respect the player’s privacy during his recovery.

Chelsea FC Shows Growing Interest in Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke

Chelsea fc are reportedly intensifying its pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke, with sources indicating the Premier League club is monitoring the Dutch international closely ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 25-year-old centre-back has emerged as a key target for the Blues as they look to bolster their defensive options with a proven Premier League performer. Van Hecke has been a standout performer for Brighton this season, establishing himself as a composed, ball-playing defender capable of progressing play effectively from the back. His leadership qualities, aerial prowess, and ability to thrive in high-pressing systems have drawn significant admiration from Chelsea’s recruitment team.

Van Hecke, who joined Brighton from Dutch side NAC Breda in 2020, has made over 100 appearances for the Seagulls and earned senior caps for the Netherlands national team. Entering the final year of his contract in the summer, he is seen as a potential long-term partner for Levi Colwill in Chelsea’s backline, aligning with the club’s strategy of acquiring mature, Premier League-experienced talent.

Brighton are reportedly holding firm on a valuation of around £50 million for the player, reflecting his importance to their squad and recent form, which has included strong contributions in build-up play and set-piece situations. Multiple Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur, have also been linked with interest, setting the stage for a competitive bidding process.

A club source familiar with Chelsea’s transfer plans commented: “Van Hecke represents the profile we are targeting – young but experienced, technically gifted, and ready to compete at the highest level. His performances this season have not gone unnoticed.”

Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler is expected to hold discussions with van Hecke regarding his future, as the player is understood to be ambitious about taking the next step in his career. No official bid has been submitted by Chelsea at this stage, but preliminary interest is said to be genuine and escalating.

Chelsea, under the guidance of their sporting directors and head coach, continue to evaluate defensive reinforcements as part of a broader squad review following the 2025/26 campaign.

Chelsea Supporters Trust have today wrote an open letter to the ownership, board and senior leadership around the direction of Chelse

Chelsea Supporters' Trust have written a letter to the ownership, board of directors and senior leadership on the "growing lack of confidence among the supporters in the leadership, structure, and strategy that underpin it".

The Trust cites how "supporters have seen no meaningful change" since the findings of the January 2026 survey which highlighted the "deep and sustained" concern of the direction in which the club is going.

They went on to say that these concerns "persist" regardless of league position and club achievements as "the vision remains unclear, its execution inconsistent, and its leadership insufficiently accountable".

In a lengthy letter, the Trust have asked the ownership, board directors and senior leadership to respond to the following four questions:

Does the club accept that supporter confidence in its current leadership model and direction has fallen to an unacceptably low level?

What specific changes will now be made to provide greater clarity and accountability in football leadership and decision-making?

What will change in how supporters are engaged, so that engagement is timely, meaningful and capable of influencing decisions rather than simply explaining them after the fact?

How does the club intend to demonstrate that its current strategy can deliver sustained sporting success, financial stability, and a recognisable Chelsea identity in a way that rebuilds supporter trust?

The Trust concluded that they "remain willing to engage constructively" with the club and look forward to their response.

Our open letter to the ownership, board and senior leadership of #ChelseaFC ⬇️

Chelsea are reportedly preparing to intensify their pursuit of Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott

Chelsea are reportedly preparing to intensify their pursuit of Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, as uncertainty continues to surround the future of Enzo Fernández.

According to The Independent, the Blues have identified the 22-year-old England midfielder as a leading candidate to strengthen their midfield options, particularly if Fernández departs amid ongoing links to Real Madrid.

Chelsea’s recruitment team is believed to be planning ahead rather than reacting late in the transfer window.

With the club continuing its long-term squad reshaping, Scott has emerged as an attractive option due to his technical ability, versatility, and Premier League experience at a young age.

Scott has enjoyed a steady rise since moving to Bournemouth, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most promising young midfielders.

Previously known for his standout performances at Bristol City, Scott made his name in the Championship before successfully adapting to the demands of top-flight football.

At Bournemouth, Scott has demonstrated composure on the ball, strong work ethic, and the ability to operate in multiple midfield roles.

He is capable of playing as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, or in a deeper creative role, making him particularly valuable in systems that demand tactical flexibility.

His ability to link midfield and attack has been a key factor in Bournemouth’s performances, and his maturity at such a young age has impressed observers across English football.

Chelsea’s interest in Scott appears closely linked to speculation surrounding Fernández’s long-term future.

The Argentine midfielder has been repeatedly linked with interest from Real Madrid, with reports suggesting the Spanish giants admire his creativity and passing range.

Should Fernández depart, Chelsea would need to secure a high-quality replacement capable of maintaining control in midfield.

Scott’s Premier League experience makes him a logical candidate, as he would require minimal adaptation compared to players arriving from overseas leagues.

Chelsea have already invested heavily in young talent in recent transfer windows, building a squad designed to grow together over time.

Signing Scott would match with this strategy, reinforcing midfield depth while also providing a long-term solution in case of departures.

However, Bournemouth are unlikely to allow Scott to leave without a significant financial return.

Reports indicate that any deal would require an offer well above £50 million.

Source: Caughtoffside 

Liam Rosenior got furious to a reporter's question on his players professionalism: "I don't know why you would ask that question?"

Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has expressed surprise at a reporter’s question regarding his players’ belief in securing a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.

Speaking after Chelsea’s training session at the club’s Cobham base, Rosenior was asked whether his squad genuinely believes they can achieve Champions League qualification this season. The 41-year-old coach responded with visible disbelief.

“I don’t know why you would ask that question?” Rosenior said. “These players are professionals. They know exactly where we are in the table and what we’re capable of. To even suggest that there’s any doubt in their minds about what we’re trying to achieve is disrespectful to the work they put in every single day.”

Chelsea currently sit in sixth position in the Premier League, level on points with their nearest rivals, with eight matches remaining. Qualification for the Champions League remains firmly within the team’s control.

Rosenior, who took over as head coach in the summer of 2025, continued: “Every player in that dressing room believes we can do it. If they didn’t, they wouldn’t be here. We don’t have passengers at this football club. We have winners, competitors, and characters who back themselves. That’s non-negotiable.”

The former Derby County and Hull City manager emphasised the collective focus within the squad as they prepare for a crucial run-in.

“We focus on the process, not the noise. The players know the standards we set here. Champions League football is where this club belongs, and we’re working every day to make sure we’re there next season.”

Rosenior refused to take further questions on the subject, redirecting attention to preparations for Chelsea’s upcoming Premier League fixture.

Chelsea FC vs Manchester United: A Premier League Powerhouse Rivalry Built on Dominance, Drama, and Silverware

As Chelsea prepare to host Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, April 18, 2026, in the Premier League, the fixture carries the weight of one of English football’s most intense modern rivalries. While not rooted in geography like the Manchester or Merseyside derbies, this clash was forged in the fire of repeated battles for titles, cup finals, and European glory during the 2000s and 2010s. Two clubs with massive ambitions, deep pockets, and star-studded squads turned meetings into box-office events.

### Origins and Early Encounters

The rivalry dates back to the early 20th century. The first competitive meeting was a 0-0 draw on Christmas Day 1905 in the old Second Division. Overall, across all competitions, Manchester United hold a historical edge with more wins (around 80-85 compared to Chelsea’s mid-50s), but the fixture has produced an unusually high number of draws—over 50 in league play alone, more than any other pair.

For decades, these were competitive but not necessarily marquee games. Chelsea enjoyed success in the 1960s and 1970s, while United built their dynasty under Sir Matt Busby and later Sir Alex Ferguson. The modern intensity ignited in the Premier League era, particularly after Roman Abramovich’s arrival at Chelsea in 2003, which transformed the Blues into title contenders.

### The Golden Era of Rivalry (2004–2011)

The true rivalry peaked when both clubs dominated English football. Between 2004 and 2011, Chelsea and United won every Premier League title bar one (Liverpool in 2005–06, Arsenal’s Invincibles earlier). They shared 14 Premier League titles in a 20-year span, multiple FA Cups, League Cups, and Champions League triumphs.

Key moments that defined the enmity:

- **2004–05 Season**: José Mourinho’s first game as Chelsea manager was a 1-0 win over United at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea went on to win the league emphatically.

- **2007–08 Champions League Final**: The pinnacle. In Moscow, the sides played out a tense 1-1 draw before United won on penalties. John Obi Mikel, who nearly joined United, played for Chelsea. Didier Drogba’s red card and the dramatic shootout (including Cristiano Ronaldo’s miss) made it unforgettable.

- **FA Cup Finals and Semis**: They met in the 2007 FA Cup Final (Chelsea won 1-0) and other high-stakes ties.

- **Memorable League Clashes**: Chelsea’s 4-0 thrashing at Old Trafford in 2005 under Mourinho. United’s dramatic comebacks, like the 2009–10 season’s 3-2 win or high-scoring thrillers (e.g., 3-3 draws). Drogba, Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs, and Paul Scholes often starred.

This period featured tactical battles between Mourinho and Ferguson, Mourinho and later managers, with mind games, red cards (e.g., Ivanovic and Torres incidents), and post-match flare-ups adding spice.

### Head-to-Head Snapshot

In the Premier League specifically, it’s remarkably even in recent decades, with high draws. At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea have a stronger record historically. Recent seasons show fluctuating fortunes, but the fixture remains unpredictable and goal-filled on average.

### Why It Still Matters

Even as both clubs have faced transitions—Chelsea through multiple ownership and managerial changes, United post-Ferguson—the rivalry endures because of shared history at the top. Players like Lampard, Terry, Rooney, and Ronaldo elevated it. Today, with young squads and new managers, Stamford Bridge will be electric, as fans recall the glory days while chasing current ambitions.

**Saturday’s showdown at the Bridge** promises another chapter. Chelsea at home are formidable, but United have shown fight in recent meetings. Expect intensity, tactical nuance, and perhaps a flash of the old magic—whether a late winner, a contentious decision, or simply two proud institutions refusing to yield.

Chelsea are closing in on new deal for Moisés Caicedo!

Moisés Caicedo’s new contract at Chelsea: salary improved, two more years until June 2033, totally sharing club view for long term.

Caicedo has given green light to #CFC stay for long term.

Fed-up Marcel Desailly tells Chelsea to sign goalkeeper who 'doesn't make mistakes' as he tears into Robert Sanchez

 Chelsea have been advised to find a goalkeeping upgrade on Robert Sanchez that “doesn’t make mistakes”, with Marcel Desailly telling GOAL why change is required between the sticks at Stamford Bridge. The Blues have struggled to find a reliable No.1 in recent times, with it possible that they will dip into the transfer market again this summer in a bid to right that wrong.

Kepa Arrizbalaga became the most expensive custodian in history when moving to west London for £72 million ($98m) in 2018. Edouard Mendy took over starting duties in 2020, claiming the FIFA Best Men’s Goalkeeper award a year later on the back of a Champions League triumph.

He also slipped down the pecking order, with Spanish shot-stopper Sanchez being snapped up from Premier League rivals Brighton in 2021. A further £25m ($34m) was invested in that deal, but there remain more questions than answers when it comes to last lines of defence at the Bridge.

In an era where keepers are expected to play out from the back and be as comfortable with the ball at their feet as they are when plucking it out of the air with their hands, Sanchez has failed to convince with his distribution off the deck.

Nerves spread across the field and throughout the crowd when passes are fed back in his direction, and that is a situation that does nobody any favours. Those filling berths in the defensive unit need to have complete confidence in the man operating directly behind them.

Chelsea, despite posting record-breaking losses, will likely find more money to spend over the summer - especially if they can chase down the likes of United, who they face at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, and secure Champions League qualification for 2026-27.

There are a number of positions that could be strengthened by Liam Rosenior, or whoever is calling shots from the dugout, and a new goalkeeper could figure prominently on any list of targets that is drawn up between now and the next transfer window opening on June 15.

Liam Rosenior Pre-Match Press Conference ahead of Chelsea vs Manchester United Premier League match

Chelsea head coach **Liam Rosenior** addressed the media at Cobham on Thursday 16 April 2026 ahead of Saturday evening’s Premier League fixture against Manchester United. The Blues, chasing a top-four finish, sit in a challenging run of form but remain determined to close the gap in the remaining games. Rosenior delivered a calm, focused, and pragmatic update covering team news, player returns, the opposition, recent struggles, and the impending fan protest.

### Team News & Injury Updates

Rosenior provided clear updates on key defensive personnel:

- **Levi Colwill** (long-term knee injury): “I’m hoping so [he returns before the end of the season]. Obviously, Levi is an outstanding player and a leader in the dressing room. I think Levi will play some minutes for the under-21s tomorrow, which is fantastic for him. When you have a long-term injury… you need a long rehab period. I want to make sure that he’s 100% right in terms of his match fitness before we consider him for selection for our first team.”

- **Trevoh Chalobah**: “Trevoh trained today, not quite fully, modified and we’ll make a decision on him but he’s very, very close.”

- **Reece James**: “Reece is a little bit further away.”

No other fresh injury concerns were raised. Rosenior stressed a cautious, fitness-first approach to avoid setbacks.

### Enzo Fernandez’s Return

The Argentine midfielder, who served a two-match ban following comments about his future, has fully reintegrated:

- “Enzo has been training with the group, he’s been training very, very well and it’s just business as usual in terms of the selection for the game.”

- On any potential group tension: “Not that I’m aware of, no… Enzo’s come back to the group this week. The group’s been fantastic… and his application to training, and our group’s application to training, so no.”

Fernandez is available and in contention for Saturday’s squad.

### Manchester United Preview

Rosenior showed respect for the visitors and their manager Michael Carrick:

- “Michael, firstly as a player, I greatly admire him. Secondly, as a coach, I know he’s an amazing coach… I’m not surprised in terms of the points return that he’s got there.”

- On United’s current standing (third in the table): “We know we have to play our best to win a difficult game on Saturday.”

- He refused to discuss individual United players or any perceived weaknesses: “No, I don’t talk about individuals of other teams. We have a way that we play.”

Rosenior acknowledged United’s recent scheduling advantages but dismissed any excuses: “We need to win this game and we need to play on the front foot with energy. And if we do that, we’ll give ourselves a really good chance to win the game.”

### Current Form, Pressure & Mentality

Chelsea have struggled for results recently (one win in six league games) and suffered a 0-3 home defeat to Manchester City last weekend. Rosenior was honest but positive:

- “We’re not in a good place in terms of the results… In this moment, you find out about yourself, you find out about your group, and you actually just have to stay focused on the process.”

- On chance creation vs finishing: “In terms of chance creation, we’re actually still very good… We just haven’t taken those moments. We need to be more clinical. We need to be more ruthless in both boxes.”

- On belief in Champions League qualification: “Of course they still believe, of course we still believe. I don’t know why you would ask that question, I don’t understand why you would.”

- On reacting to setbacks: “What I want to see the team do is go and push for the first goal, and not give the first goal up… We’re not as far away as probably what it feels like, but what we have to do is manage the margins of the game a little bit better.”

He highlighted strong recent training sessions and group conversations, insisting the squad’s spirit and effort remain intact.

### Fan Protest & External Noise

A protest against the club’s ownership is planned for Saturday. Rosenior addressed it respectfully:

- “Can you understand the fans feeling disheartened? … Every supporter has their viewpoint. Every supporter wants their club to do well and to win games of football. Our job, my job with the team, is to produce those results in the long term. I respect any fan’s points of view, but that’s not my focus. My focus is on winning the game on Saturday.”

- On external pressure: “The noise is not anything that you can control. What you can control are your group in terms of our spirit, which I don’t think has ever been in question.”

### Overall Tone & Outlook

Rosenior struck a measured, determined tone — acknowledging the difficult period without panic. He repeatedly emphasised controlling what is controllable: performance, energy, application, and clinical execution. With six or seven games left, he framed Saturday as a “must-win” opportunity to regain momentum in the race for Champions League football.

The full official video of the press conference is available on the Chelsea FC YouTube channel and website. Chelsea face Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening (kick-off time TBC in the Premier League schedule).

Watch Below:

Chelsea prepared to change transfer policy for Liam Rosenior

 Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior is under pressure from supporters to deliver results, although the club have a clear stance on what his immediate future looks like.

Rosenior cut a frustrated figure in Chelsea’s last Premier League game against Manchester City, as they slipped further away from the Champions League places.

The boss has had the backing of the owners recently after his decision to internally ban Enzo Fernandez following his comments about Real Madrid during the international break.

Romano told the Market Madness podcast that the clear message he is getting from the club is that they want to continue with him in charge next season.

He said: “And for Liam Rosenior, Chelsea, since they want to continue with him next season. So that’s the feeling and that’s the clear message at the club.

“Then obviously we have to see how’s going to be the end of the season. It can’t continue like this, of course. But in general, the feeling at Chelsea is that Rosenior is going to be involved next season and involved also in the summer plans for new signings.”

There will no doubt be a desire for the club to stop with the chopping and changing of managers. Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Frank Lampard, Mauricio Pochettino, Enzo Maresca and Rosenior have all been in charge under the new regime.

Reports have already stated that Rosenior has been involved in conversations regarding the signings the club will make this summer as they look to strengthen their squad.

These have involved making a slight change to their transfer policy to allow the club to bring in more experienced players, something the club have been crying out for.

This will not completely put an end to the project of signing young, talented players though. The Blues are expected to confirm a deal for Valentin Barco from Strasbourg for this summer.

Many have been left questioning whether they have actually gotten stronger since sacking Maresca, however Chelsea fans may have no option but to get on board with the current boss for the foreseeable future.

Source: Chelsea Chronicles

Maxence Lacroix open to joining Chelsea in the summer

 Lacroix has been one of the standout performers in the Premier League this season, consistently ranking among the top defenders for interceptions and successful aerial duels.

With Chelsea’s sporting directors, Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, known to be scouting for defensive reinforcements to stabilise Liam Rosenior’s backline, Lacroix could be the man.

According to the Daily Mail, Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix would be interested in a step up to Chelsea during the summer transfer window.

With ambitions of representing France, it’s something that would help him.

Chelsea want to sign a centre back who can partner Levi Colwill and the 26-year-old ticks most of the boxes they are looking for. Premier League experience? Tick – 63 appearances for Palace after 111 for Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga. Central centre back? Tick – he plays in the middle of a back three for Glasner’s Palace, though has previously played in a four.

Chelsea Women Star Sam Kerr Leads CommBank Matildas to Historic First FIFA Series Title in Kenya

Australian football icon and Chelsea Women forward Sam Kerr delivered a captain’s performance, scoring her 75th international goal as the CommBank Matildas claimed their first-ever FIFA Series title with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over hosts Kenya in the final at Nyayo National Stadium.

The win capped a dominant campaign for the Matildas in the inaugural FIFA Series 2026, following a commanding 5-0 triumph over Malawi earlier in the window. Kerr opened the scoring in the 25th minute against Kenya with a clinical finish from a corner, before Clare Wheeler added a second-half strike to secure the trophy and an unbeaten record.

Kerr, who has been a trailblazer for Australian and world women’s football, described the moment as a proud achievement for the team: “This is for the girls, for the fans back home, and for everyone who’s supported us. Winning the first FIFA Series title means a lot – it shows the depth and character in this squad.” Her goal, though she later called it one of her softer strikes after a goalkeeper error, marked another milestone in a glittering career that includes over 100 goals for Chelsea since joining the club in 2020.

The match was competitive, with Kenya’s Harambee Starlets creating chances and testing the Matildas’ defence in front of a passionate home crowd. A potential third goal from Caitlin Foord was controversially disallowed, but Australia maintained control to earn a clean sheet and lift the trophy amid celebrations filled with confetti and team camaraderie.

Football Australia CEO praised the squad’s resilience: “The Matildas continue to set the standard on the international stage. Sam Kerr’s leadership, combined with the squad’s depth, has delivered this historic win. It’s a fantastic way to build momentum heading into future competitions.”

The FIFA Series provides valuable competitive opportunities for national teams outside of major tournament windows. For the Matildas, the success in Kenya reinforces their status as one of the world’s top women’s sides following their strong showing at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on home soil.

Kerr and her Chelsea teammates will now return to club duties, where she continues to be a key figure in the Barclays Women’s Super League. Fans and teammates worldwide have flooded social media with congratulations, highlighting the global impact of her leadership.

Congratulations, Sam! 👏

Quotes:

“Leading the team to this title in Kenya has been special. We faced tough opposition and came through together – that’s what the Matildas are all about.” – Sam Kerr, Matildas Captain and Chelsea Women forward.

Patrick van Aanholt Praises Jorrel Hato’s Rapid Development at Chelsea: “A Fit Hato Is One of the Better Left-Backs Out There”

Former Premier League defender Patrick van Aanholt has spoken glowingly about Chelsea’s young Dutch star Jorrel Hato, highlighting the 20-year-old’s impressive adaptation to English football and his emergence as a key player in the Blues’ squad.32

Van Aanholt, who enjoyed a successful career in the Premier League with clubs including Chelsea, Sunderland, and Crystal Palace, and who himself transitioned from the Eredivisie, offered personal insight into Hato’s progress this season. The experienced left-back revealed he had advised Hato ahead of the campaign on the challenges of Premier League football.30

“I told him at the start of the season: You’re going to have to get used to the Premier League,” van Aanholt said. “He got his matches, ended up on the bench, and now, after the winter break, I don’t know what he did. He has developed to such an extent that he has played his way into the starting lineup. I think that a fit Hato is one of the better left-backs out there.”31

Hato, who joined Chelsea from Ajax in August 2025 for an initial fee of around £35.5 million on a seven-year deal, has primarily featured at left-back this season while also proving versatile as a centre-back. The Rotterdam-born defender made his Premier League debut shortly after arriving and has steadily earned more starts, particularly in recent months, showcasing his composure on the ball, defensive solidity, and ability to contribute in attack.10

Van Aanholt’s comments come as Hato continues to establish himself among Chelsea’s defensive options, providing competition and cover for Marc Cucurella and adding depth to a squad competing on multiple fronts. The young international has also represented the Netherlands senior team, building on his rapid rise from Ajax’s academy, where he captained the side as a teenager.17

The former Dutch international van Aanholt, now playing for Sparta Rotterdam in the Eredivisie, has maintained connections within the Dutch football community and spoke to Hato before his big move to Stamford Bridge. His endorsement underscores the high regard in which the versatile 20-year-old is held.33

BingX Continues as Official Principal Partner of Chelsea FC for the 2026/27 Season

Chelsea Football Club and BingX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 AI company, today announced the continuation of their groundbreaking multi-year partnership. BingX will extend its role as the Club’s Official Principal Partner for the 2026/27 Premier League season and beyond, building on a collaboration that has already delivered significant value to fans, traders, and both organisations since its inception in January 2024.

Originally launched as Official Sleeve Partner for the men’s team playing kits in the latter part of the 2023/24 season, the partnership evolved into Official Men’s Training Wear Partner for the 2024/25 and 2025/26 campaigns. Under the shared “Trained on Greatness” philosophy, BingX has been embedded in the Club’s high-performance culture at Cobham, powering innovative activations that connect the discipline of elite football with the precision of AI-driven trading.

The 2026/27 season will see BingX maintain prominent visibility across Chelsea FC’s men’s training kits, global digital platforms, and fan experiences. The partnership will expand fan engagement opportunities, including exclusive Match Day Xperiences, AI-powered trading tools tailored for Chelsea supporters, and co-branded content that highlights the parallels between on-pitch excellence and smart financial decision-making in crypto markets.

Todd Kline, President of Commercial at Chelsea FC, said: “Our partnership with BingX has been a tremendous success since day one. From the training ground to the global stage, BingX has brought fresh energy, innovation, and a genuine commitment to excellence that perfectly aligns with Chelsea’s values. We are thrilled to continue this collaboration into the 2026/27 season and beyond, delivering unique value to our fans worldwide while pushing the boundaries of what a modern partnership can achieve.”

Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer at BingX, commented: “Extending our role as Official Principal Partner of Chelsea FC is a natural next step in our journey. What began as BingX’s first step into sports sponsorship has grown into a powerful platform for showcasing how AI and Web3 technology can empower individuals to perform at their best – whether on the pitch or in the trading arena. We remain fully committed to ‘Trained on Greatness’ and look forward to creating even more unforgettable moments for Chelsea fans and BingX users alike in the seasons ahead.”

The announcement underscores both organisations’ long-term vision: Chelsea FC continues to strengthen its position as a forward-thinking global sports brand, while BingX leverages the partnership to drive mainstream adoption of cryptocurrency and AI-powered trading tools among millions of football fans.