Antonio Conte: A busy summer ahead for Chelsea FC

"Chelsea Football Club announced earlier this week the appointment of Antonio Conte as First Team Head Coach. The Italian is set to take over the reigns in London following Euro 2016 this summer where he will lead Italy before moving to Chelsea on a three year contract. With plenty of squad alterations, a busy summer transfer window beckons. "
Published by
13th Apr 2016

Chelsea Football Club announced earlier this week the appointment of Antonio Conte as First Team Head Coach.

 

The Italian is set to take over the reigns in London following Euro 2016 this summer where he will lead Italy before moving to Chelsea on a three year contract.

Conte looks set to be backed by the financial clout of club owner Roman Abramovich as he hopes to revive a Chelsea squad which have had a miserable campaign far below their lofty expectations.

With plenty of squad alterations, a busy summer transfer window beckons. So let’s have a look at which Chelsea faces will be given a chance to shine next season and which players will be shown the door, bidding ‘arrivederci’ to Stamford Bridge.  

Goalkeepers:

Thibaut Courtois: The Belgian international has built a reputation as one of the best young goalkeepers in the world. Real Madrid will be likely to renew their interest in the summer but the 23-year-old should stay.

 

Asmir Begovic: The second-choice goalkeeper has had a handful of games this season and he is likely to stay offering plenty of Premier League experience.

Defenders:

Branislav Ivanovic: Looked likely to be shown the door earlier in the season but has regained his form under interim coach Guus Hiddink. The Serbian also recently signed a one-year extension in January.

Cesar Azpilicueta: The full-back should stay and he provides defensive versatility and assurance which Conte needs.

John Terry: Publicly announced his departure after he wasn’t offered a contract extension in January. However, Conte may want the Englishman’s experience and could persuade him to stay.

Gary Cahill: Should definitely stay if John Terry cannot be persuaded to stay at the club.

Kurt Zouma: Impressed before suffering a serious knee injury. The youngster should be given a chance once he returns to full fitness.

Baba Rahman: Had an inconsistent season since his summer arrival from Augsberg. He may be shown the door.

Midfielders:

Eden Hazard: Looks certain to leave Stamford Bridge following a drab campaign with Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid keeping tabs on the Belgian.

Cesc Fabregas: Another high profile player who has had an inconsistent campaign but should be given a chance to prove himself to the new boss.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek: One of the club’s brightest talents the youngster looks like a talent that is only going to get better following his breakthrough season.

Nemanja Matic: Future looks uncertain with plenty of European suitors interested in his services.

John Obi Mikel: The 28-year old looks past his best and is likely to be sold despite being given regular playing time by Guus Hiddink.

Oscar: Should stay after showing glimpses of his quality. Conte will look to get the best out of him on a more regular basis. Reports in Italy suggest he may move in the summer.

Pedro: Arrived with so much expectation following his transfer from Barcelona. The Spanish winger is likely to be sold.

Willian: Chelsea’s best player this season. The Brazilian has proved to be a pivotal part of the squad chipping in with his fair share of goals. Almost certain to stay at the club.

Bertrand Traore: Has scored 4 goals in his 8 appearances so far this season. The 20 year-old looks like a promising talent. Perhaps a loan move may benefit the youngster.

Kenedy: Another young talent who has impressed during his breakthrough season, likely to stay.

Forwards:

Diego Costa: A return to Spain looks imminent as he is unhappy with his treatment in English football. A return to Atletico Madrid may be a possibility.

Loic Remy: Another player who may bid farewell. Looked certain to join Newcastle on loan in January, the Frenchman is likely to be moved on this summer.

Radamel Falcao: Had a miserable time in English football. Firstly at Manchester United then unable to regain his form which once made him one of the most sought-after forwards in the world. Will return to his parent club once his loan deal ends.

Alexandre Pato: Hardly featured since signing on loan. A debut goal against Aston Villa may convince Conte to keep the striker who he knows well from his time in Italy.

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