Chelsea Midfielder Cole Palmer Endures Difficult Evening for England in 1-0 Defeat to Japan

Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer had a night to forget as England suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Japan in an international friendly at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday evening.

The 23-year-old, starting in the No. 10 role, was substituted in the 59th minute as manager Thomas Tuchel looked to change the momentum of a match that saw Japan claim a historic first-ever victory over England on English soil.

Japan took the lead in the 23rd minute through Brighton's Kaoru Mitoma, who finished clinically following a swift counter-attack. Palmer was dispossessed in midfield, allowing Mitoma to surge forward and combine with Keito Nakamura before slotting the ball past Jordan Pickford.

Despite showing flashes of his usual creativity early on, Palmer struggled to impose himself on the game, with England failing to register a shot on target until after his withdrawal alongside Phil Foden. Tuchel later acknowledged that both attacking players "struggled to make a difference" in a system that lacked the expected width and penetration.

The defeat marks England's second international of the March window and comes as Tuchel prepares to finalise his squad for the upcoming World Cup. With Harry Kane absent, the Three Lions looked laboured, and the home crowd made their frustration known at full time.

In very unlikely fashion, Cole Palmer failed to register a single successful dribble, failing on both occasions. He was also dispossessed once, which led to the goal.

As well as this, Palmer had 40 touches, a passing accuracy percentage of 77, created two chances, three crosses and failed his only accurate long ball attempt.

On the defensive side of things he made just one recovery, won two out of five duels and was fouled on two occasions.

A slightly concerning performance for those who hoped Cole Palmer had return to his best after an impressive cameo against Uruguay last time out.

England will now turn their attention to the next phase of preparation, with Tuchel expected to name his World Cup squad in May.

Marc Cucurella tells Chelsea owners they need to sign more experienced players

 In an interview with The Athletic, the left-back said: “I understand this is part of the club’s policy, and that they want to take this direction — signing young players and looking to the future. But, for all of us who are still here and want to win big things, moments like this [PSG defeat] make you feel discouraged.

“We have a good core of players. The foundations are there. But to fight for major trophies such as the Premier League or the Champions League, you need more. Signing young players only might complicate achieving those goals. Against PSG, we lacked players that had gone through situations like that.

“You need time as well, and I know the young players are the ones that will have the experience in the future. But you need to find the balance between both worlds.”

There is nothing to suggest that Chelsea are going to change their transfer policy despite what happened in the Champions League.

They have a plan and clearly want to stick to it, but it could have ramifications. The team have just not been able to compete in the Premier League, and that is unlikely to change until more experience is added to the squad.

Chelsea are already at risk of missing out on the top five this season, with Liam Rosenior’s men currently sitting in sixth place in the Premier League table.

Cucurella has not ruled out a move to Barcelona in the future. If things do not improve, it would not be a shock to see the Spaniard and others depart.

Source: THE CHELSEA CHRONICLES

Cobalt Roar share how much Chelsea paid Enzo Maresca after his departure

 Officially, Maresca resigned as Chelsea manager on New Year’s Day. But realistically, the Italian left as he felt his position had become untenable, and the club’s hierarchy was probably going to sack him anyway.

Of course, Maresca has since been replaced by Liam Rosenior, who himself is under huge pressure after losing seven of 19 matches in all competitions. Three defeats to Arsenal and two more against PSG.

Maresca eventually left his post as Chelsea manager on New Year’s Day, this year. Calum McFarlane replaced him as interim boss, before Rosenior was given the reins after impressing at Strasbourg.

According to The Sun, shortly after his sacking, Maresca had waived a £14m pay-off due to resigning as manager. Had he been sacked by the Chelsea board, the Blues would have had to pay a huge figure.

But according to CalcioMercato, an Italian source, Maresca was given a £4.3m payout by Chelsea. It is claimed that Maresca was on a similar amount in terms of a yearly wage, and it may have been agreed.

The reality is that Chelsea were struggling with Maresca in charge, and the former Leicester manager’s position was becoming untenable. Yet, this is a manager who delivered two trophies while at Chelsea.

Some players were not happy with the decision to oust the manager, and it is a decision that continues to frustrate some of the Chelsea squad. Speaking this week, Marc Cucurella thinks it was a mistake.

“The moment Maresca left, it had a big impact on us. These are decisions taken by the club. If you asked me, I would not have made this decision,” he said. At least, Maresca didn’t go without a contribution.

Marc Cucurella: Reece James is the world’s strongest full-back

 Reece James’ hamstring injury is a massive blow, and it was exacerbated by Trevoh Chalobah’s ankle problem against PSG. Perhaps Marc Cucurella’s latest claim explains why Chelsea are struggling.

Without James, it is clear that Chelsea are far worse. Not only do the Blues lack his quality on the ball and his versatility in both defence and in midfield, but the 26-year-old’s leadership. Also, maybe his strength?

Cucurella was asked by The Athletic’s TikTok page to create his perfect full-back, and when it came to strength, the Spanish defender picked James as the physically strongest full-back currently in football.

The former Brighton defender picked himself for tackling and aerial duels, while Dani Carvajal was chosen for leadership. Trent Alexander-Arnold got his vote for crossing, and Alejandro Balde for speed.

When club football returns, Chelsea take on League One side Port Vale in the FA Cup, the first time the two sides have done battle in 97 years. Realistically, James was always likely to be rested for it anyway.

Then, Chelsea take on Man City at Stamford Bridge and that is a game Rosenior would love to have James available to play in. But reports say that Chelsea are hoping James will return against Manchester United.

That means another two games missed by James, but in the grand scheme of things, it is not the end of the world. James will be available – fingers crossed – for six of Chelsea’s remaining seven league games.

Romeo Lavia claims Chelsea’s evolution has been ‘unbelievable’

 Chelsea are not doing well in the Premier League at the moment, losing back-to-back games to Everton and Newcastle United before the international break.

The Blues sit in sixth place in the Premier League table, meaning they are set to miss out on Champions League qualification as things stand.

Despite all of that, Lavia is pleased with the direction that the club are heading in and has even gone as far as to say that the evolution he has seen since joining has been “unbelievable”.

When asked what has surprised him the most at Chelsea, Lavia told Chelsea’s official club website: “The evolution of the club. In such a short space of time, it has been unbelievable.

“There has been constant evolution in the levels on the pitch, off the pitch, the standards and everything has been going up, up, up. It is not going to stop. We are going to keep going up!”

The 22-year-old is fit again and started in the 3-0 loss to Everton so should be available when club football returns.

Lavia was definitely one positive from the Everton defeat. The Belgian played well that day, and hopefully he can build on that performance in his next outing.

Source: The Chronicles

Enzo Fernandez causing tension at Chelsea after new comments

 

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández has created fresh unease within the club after a series of public comments made while on international duty with Argentina, raising questions over his long-term commitment to Stamford Bridge.

The 25-year-old World Cup winner, who joined Chelsea from Benfica in a club-record £107 million deal in 2023, spoke openly in recent interviews about his preference for living in Madrid, describing the Spanish capital as similar to his home city of Buenos Aires. When asked which city he would like to live in besides London, Fernández replied: “Madrid… I like Madrid very much… it’s similar to Buenos Aires. Players live where they want. I get by in English, but I’d be more comfortable in Spanish.”

These remarks come shortly after he publicly criticised Chelsea’s decision to part ways with former head coach Enzo Maresca in January 2026, stating that the mid-season change “hurt us a lot” and left the squad without the clear identity and order that Maresca had established.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the comments have contributed to growing tension around Fernández’s future at the club. Negotiations over a new contract extension have stalled, with no agreement currently in place despite earlier discussions. Fernández’s existing deal runs until June 2032.

The Argentine international’s latest comments have drawn a strong reaction from sections of the Chelsea fanbase, many of whom feel the repeated public speculation is unhelpful at a critical stage of the season. Manager Liam Rosenior had previously defended Fernández after earlier remarks, attributing them to translation issues, but the latest statements have reignited debate.

Fernández has previously issued apologies to fans and teammates following controversial incidents, and he remains a key figure in Chelsea’s midfield alongside Moisés Caicedo. However, his performances have come under scrutiny amid the ongoing uncertainty.

Chelsea have not issued an official comment on the situation, maintaining their policy of not discussing individual contract matters or reacting to speculation. The club continue to monitor the squad’s focus as they navigate the final weeks of the Premier League campaign.

Real Madrid have long been linked with Fernández, though no formal interest has been confirmed at this stage.

A source close to the situation described the atmosphere as one of mild frustration rather than outright crisis, but acknowledged that repeated public comments from senior players can disrupt squad harmony.

Chelsea considering Lamine Camara for midfield

 Since their takeover, Chelsea have really tapped into the French market and could do so again as they eye AS Monaco’s Lamine Camara.

According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea want to “rejuvenate” their midfield and are currently monitoring Camara, meaning that he could become a serious option for them this summer.

However, the midfielder will not come cheap. It is thought that Monaco could demand up to €75m (£65m) for his signature.

Chelsea recently signed Mamadou Sarr and Emanuel Emegha from sister club Strasbourg, who play in France. The former is now part of Liam Rosenior’s squad, but the latter does not officially join until the summer.

Under Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the Blues have also brought in the likes of Malo Gusto, Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi from French clubs.

Disasi could join West Ham United permanently after falling out of favour at Stamford Bridge. If Camara does move to west London, he will be hoping that his spell there goes much better than Disasi’s.

Lamine Camara’s stats in Ligue 1 this season

Chelsea scouts will be impressed with what they have seen from Camara this term. The 22-year-old is yet to score in Ligue 1, but he has managed to register four assists in 18 appearances, which is not bad for a young midfielder.

The area Camara has really shone in, though, is winning the ball back. According to WhoScored, the Senegalese footballer is making 2.3 tackles and 1.9 interceptions per game, which are the highest averages in Monaco’s squad.

Ultimately, Camara is proving to be a good ball-winner, but whether Chelsea need that when they already have Moises Caicedo, Andrey Santos and Dario Essugo is up for debate

Source: The Chronicles 

Teddy Sharman-Lowe deserves a chance against Port Vale

 However, this commitment to youth has been a double-edged sword. While the Blues have marched into the FA Cup quarter-finals, their lack of know-how was brutally exposed during a recent Champions League exit, highlighting the need for an experienced centre-back in particular.

But, a clash with Port Vale should allow Rosenior to trial a few things.

In Chelsea training images ahead of Port Vale, Sharman-Lowe was spotted alongside Robert Sanchez, sparking speculation that he could make his first appearance.

After an impressive first half of the campaign on loan at Bolton Wanderers, where he recorded six clean sheets in 22 appearances, the 23-year-old goalkeeper was recalled to Stamford Bridge in January.

This move was prompted by a long-term injury to Filip Jorgensen, thrusting Sharman-Lowe into the senior matchday squad as a backup to Robert Sanchez.

Since his return, he has balanced bench duties for Liam Rosenior’s senior side with dominant performances for the Under-21s, most notably recording an assist during a 4-1 win over Birmingham City.

Teddy Sharman-Lowe presents a third way out of Chelsea’s current goalkeeping crisis. Robert Sanchez’s confidence has visibly cratered following a series of errors, while Filip Jorgensen is sidelined for several weeks following a minor operation on a recurring groin injury.

With the first-team options either mentally fragile or physically unavailable, Sharman-Lowe offers the clean slate Liam Rosenior requires.

Having returned from a productive loan at Bolton with significant match rhythm, he represents a homegrown solution.

In a season where established stars are faltering, Sharman-Lowe’s hunger and consistency for the Under-21s makes him a good option to trial against Port Vale.

João Félix Insists He Has No Regrets Over Chelsea Exit After Being Restored to Natural Position at Al-Nassr

Portuguese forward João Félix has declared he has no regrets about leaving Chelsea for Al-Nassr, stating firmly “I did what I had to do!” as he continues to thrive in his preferred role at the Saudi Pro League club.

The 26-year-old joined Al-Nassr on a permanent two-year deal from Chelsea in July 2025 for an initial fee of €30 million, which could rise to €50 million with performance-related add-ons. After two separate spells at Stamford Bridge — including a permanent signing in 2024 — Félix struggled for consistent minutes and often found himself deployed out of position as a winger or isolated striker.

Speaking in a recent interview, Félix expressed satisfaction with his decision and the new chapter in his career alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and under manager Jorge Jesus.

“I really enjoyed my time at Chelsea — it’s a massive club with incredible fans and facilities,” Félix said. “But I had to make the decision that felt right for me and my career. I did what I had to do! Now I’m playing regularly, getting plenty of minutes, and most importantly, I’m back in my natural position — the central attacking role where I first stood out at Benfica.

“The system here suits me very well. I have complete confidence in myself again, and I’m enjoying my football. We’re fighting at the top of the league with eight games left, and the atmosphere is fantastic.”

Since arriving in Saudi Arabia, Félix has rediscovered the form that once made him one of Europe’s most exciting young talents. His performances have drawn praise for his creativity, vision, and goal threat in a more liberated attacking midfield position.

Félix also reflected on the challenges of his time in the Premier League: “At Chelsea and even at Atlético Madrid, things didn’t always go as planned. Sometimes you need a change of environment to feel free again. Al-Nassr has given me that platform, and I’m very grateful.”

The move has allowed Félix to reunite with Portugal captain Ronaldo, adding another layer of excitement to his time in the Middle East.

Chelsea FC wished Félix well upon his departure last summer, acknowledging his efforts during his spells at the club.

Félix remains a key player for the Portugal national team and is expected to feature prominently in upcoming international fixtures.

Chelsea Defender Marc Cucurella Criticises Club’s Decision to Sack Enzo Maresca

Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella has openly questioned the club’s decision to part company with former head coach Enzo Maresca, stating that players “would die for him” and that the change came too early.

In a frank interview, the Spain international expressed strong loyalty to Maresca, who guided Chelsea to UEFA Europa Conference League and Club World Cup success during his 18-month tenure before leaving the club in January 2026.

“When a manager gives you that confidence and offers you a platform to fight for titles, you’d die for him,” Cucurella said. “The moment Maresca left, it had a big impact on us. These are decisions taken by the club. If you asked me, I would not have made this decision.”

Cucurella added that such a mid-season change disrupts stability and suggested waiting until the end of the season would have been better for players and any incoming manager.

Maresca’s departure followed a reported breakdown in relations with the club’s hierarchy amid a challenging Premier League run, despite earlier trophy successes.

Cucurella’s comments reflect the sense of loss felt by some players after the Italian coach’s exit.

Adam Gemili Retires from Athletics and Joins Chelsea FC Academy as Speed Coach

 

 British sprinting star Adam Gemili has announced his retirement from professional athletics after a distinguished 14-year career and will return to Chelsea Football Club as a part-time speed coach working with the club's academy players.

Gemili, 32, bows out as one of Britain's finest sprinters. He is one of only three British men to have broken the 10-second barrier in the 100m (9.97s) and the 20-second barrier in the 200m (19.97s). His achievements include European 200m gold in 2014, multiple European relay titles, and a standout moment as part of the Great Britain 4x100m relay team that won gold at the 2017 World Championships in London — famously in Usain Bolt's final individual race.

A three-time Olympian (London 2012, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2020), Gemili competed at the highest level against the world's best, overcoming injuries to leave a lasting legacy in British sprinting. He sits fourth on the UK all-time list for the 200m and was the first British athlete to achieve sub-10 and sub-20 times in the respective sprints.

Gemili's new chapter brings him full circle. He spent seven years in Chelsea's renowned youth academy as a promising young footballer before choosing athletics as a teenager. Now, he returns to Cobham to focus on speed development, acceleration, and sprint mechanics with Chelsea's young talents, particularly in the under-13 and under-14 age groups. He has already been working casually with the academy since late last year.

"I'm incredibly grateful for everything athletics has given me over the past 15 years," Gemili said. "From competing at home in London 2012 to winning world gold in front of a home crowd in 2017, it's been an amazing journey filled with highs, challenges, and unforgettable memories. I'm content with my career and excited to start this next phase.

"Returning to Chelsea feels like coming home. I loved my time in the academy as a kid, and now I get to help the next generation of footballers improve their speed and athleticism. It's a full-circle moment, and I'm looking forward to passing on the knowledge I've gained."

Chelsea FC welcomed the appointment, noting Gemili's unique blend of elite sprinting experience and deep familiarity with the club's youth system.

A Chelsea spokesperson said: "Adam is a fantastic addition to our academy staff. His expertise in speed and explosive power will be invaluable for our young players' development. We're thrilled to have him back at the club where his sporting journey began."

Gemili has also indicated plans to launch his own coaching business focused on speed development for young athletes across multiple sports, while potentially exploring punditry opportunities in athletics coverage.

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Massimo Ambrosini suggests Cesc Fabregas should join Chelsea

 Fabregas is doing a remarkable job at Serie A side Como, who were promoted to Serie A at the end of 2023-24. Fabregas has been manager since the summer of 2024, winning 32 of his 74 games as boss.

Como currently sit in fourth place in Serie A and remarkably, look good for a Champions League slot. Fabregas is doing an incredible job and plenty have suggested him for the Chelsea role at some point.

Milan icon Massimo Ambrosini has been speaking to GOAL, and the former midfielder believes Fabregas could take the job at Chelsea next. Ambrosini suggested taking the Blues job over Real Madrid.

“So of course Barcelona would be, could be, a good choice. I don’t know about Real Madrid, because Real is a strange situation. But maybe Chelsea,” Ambrosini said, weighing up which club could hire Fabregas.

“Chelsea had a good manager because Enzo Maresca was a good manager. I don’t know what happened, but Enzo is a good manager. I’m not sure Cesc will leave the Italian league. No rush,” Ambrosini added.

Ambrosini not the only one who sees Fabregas at Chelsea

Such is the job Fabregas is doing at Como, Eden Hazard says he dreams of watching Chelsea with his old Blues teammates in the dugout as manager. For now, it looks like Rosenior will be given a chance.

John Terry even, has predicted that Fabregas will take over at Chelsea or Arsenal at some point in the future. He’s made a wonderful start to his management career, and for Terry, it is hardly a surprise.

“Honestly, I think he’s got the best football brain I’ve been around and seen,” Terry said. But Como are confident that Fabregas will remain for now, especially if they qualify for the Champions League.

Former Chelsea defender Nathan Ake could return to Stamford Bridge

 Chelsea sold Nathan Ake to Bournemouth back in 2017 for a £20m fee, which will go down as a bargain for the Cherries.

Ake only continued to improve at the Vitality Stadium before getting a big-money move to another Premier League outfit, Manchester City, three years later.

The defender has had a very successful time under Pep Guardiola, winning the title and Champions League. However, it looks like he could be on his way out of the Etihad this summer.

Ake’s contract at City expires next year, meaning that the Citizens could sell the centre-back in the next transfer window to avoid losing him on a free. If they do, it appears that Cobham could be his destination.

According to The Sun, Ake already has a mansion near there and is having it redeveloped. It is thought that said mansion will be his main residence.

A statement from his planning agent, which has been shared by the newspaper, said: “This is a self-build application with the applicants intending to reside at the property as their main residence.”

In terms of numbers, Chelsea are not actually short in the centre-half department. Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, Mamadou Sarr, Benoit Badiashile, Josh Acheampong and Tosin Adarabioyo can all play there.

Levi Colwill will also be an option for Liam Rosenior when he returns from his ACL injury. However, none of those names are as experienced as Ake.

Colwill could make his comeback next month in what would be a huge boost for the Blues.

Pros and cons of Chelsea re-signing Nathan Ake

Ake’s experience is definitely one reason why the Dutchman could be the perfect addition to this Chelsea squad.

Ake is now 31 and has made nearly 250 appearances in the Premier League. The Netherlands international being able to play at centre-back and left-back also makes him an attractive option.

At 5’11”, though, Ake is not the most physically imposing centre-half. That would be one worry, especially with Chelsea being so vulnerable from set-pieces this season.

Intermediaries gauging interest in Chelsea’s Cole Palmer

 According to TEAMtalk, intermediaries have now been working behind the scenes to gauge interest from other clubs.

Chelsea’s Premier League rivals Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain have all been approached, the same outlet states.

Despite picking up a couple of injuries this season and not being as consistent as he was in previous campaigns, Palmer is still Chelsea’s second-highest goalscorer in the top flight.

In 20 appearances, the £40m attacking midfielder has scored nine goals. Only Joao Pedro has netted on more occasions.

Ultimately, Palmer is not a player Chelsea should be looking to sell when the transfer window opens.

Chelsea fans are already far from happy with the club’s owners and sporting directors. Selling Palmer would be the final straw, especially if he is sold to another Premier League club like United.

It would also set Chelsea’s “project” back massively. The 23-year-old is the Blues’ best player and one of the most dangerous attackers in world football.

They will end up losing their main goal source and will struggle to find someone whose output matches his.

Palmer may very well be unhappy at Chelsea, which would not be a complete shock given where the team are right now, but he has a contract until 2033. The club are under no pressure to sell him this summer.

Thomas Tuchel expects better from Cole Palmer

 According to The Athletic, Thomas Tuchel hasn’t been best pleased with the amount of contributions players like Cole Palmer have made at their clubs this season.

While Cole Palmer remains a focal point at Chelsea with 10 goals in all competitions, his campaign has been hampered by niggling groin and hamstring injuries, limiting his availability for Tuchel’s early camps.

The England boss has been vocal about the big competition for the number ten role, with as many as five players fighting for one spot.

“I would love them to have more numbers. Meaning Bukayo (Saka), Noni (Madueke), Ebs (Eberechi Eze), Anthony Gordon, even Cole Palmer, and even Morgan Rogers. Not Jude (Bellingham) but Phil Foden. Who is producing, like Harry, these outstanding numbers? Who’s deciding games?”

As well as the niggling injuries, Cole Palmer has been used out wide, opposed to his favourite and best position in the number 10 role, which hasn’t helped his cause.

As previously mentioned, a series of persistent physical setbacks, most notably a recurring groin injury that sidelined him for significant periods, have prevented him from finding the rhythm.

These fitness issues have seen him miss over 15 games across all competitions, robbing Chelsea of their primary creator during critical stretches.

Beyond injuries, the tactical shift under head coach Liam Rosenior has altered Palmer’s influence. Following Enzo Maresca’s departure in January, Rosenior’s system has often moved Palmer into wider roles to accommodate Enzo Fernandez centrally.

This move away from the number 10 position has seen his assist numbers stall, with only one league assist by late March. Combined with the heavy fatigue from a schedule that included the 2025 Club World Cup, Palmer is fighting a battle against both his own body and a system that currently limits him.