Now that Chelsea have the Premier League trophy all wrapped up, we thought we’d have a look at how they might line up next season to try and defend their title…
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Manager – Jose Mourinho: No explanation required.
GK – Thibaut Courtois: The young Belgian ‘keeper quickly cemented his place as the Blues’ no.1 ahead of Petr Cech after a lengthy, but successful, loan at Atletico Madrid. Courtois has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in world football this season and at just 22 he is likely to be the number one for Chelsea for many seasons to come.
RB – Lukasz Piszczek: The Poland and Borussia Dortmund right-back has been a first-team regular since he joined in 2010 and has produced some impressive performances. Piszczek has experience of playing at the top level in Europe and internationally and a move to the Premier League – away from a struggling Dortmund – may well appeal to the 29 year old.
CB – John Terry (C): What a season he’s had! Nominated for player of the year, and recently signed a new contract, John Terry is seemingly better than ever. Having not missed a single Premier League game so far (with two games to go), he’s nailed on to play under Mourinho again next season.
CB – Raphael Varane: Recognised as one of the best young centre-backs in the world, Varane has previously had game time limited at Real Madrid. Despite playing more this campaign, there are still reports that Los Blancos would sell if the figure was suitable. He’d be expensive, but would command at the back for years to come.
LB – Cesar Azpilicueta: The young Spaniard spent much of his career as a right-back but he has transformed to a very reliable left-back during his time at Chelsea. Azpilicueta will be 26 at the start of next season and entering his prime and Jose Mourinho will look to stick with the Spanish international during these ‘golden years’.
CM – Nemanja Matic: Since being re-signed by Chelsea, Matic has become one of the finest defensive-midfielders in the Premier League. Deemed surplus to requirements in 2011, the Serbian has forced the likes of Ramires and Jon Obi-Mikel out of the starting line-up and is now on of the first names on the team-sheet.
CM – Cesc Fabregas: The former Gunner has been a star for Chelsea since joining in the summer from Barcelona. His partnership with Matic in the midfield has arguably been the reason for the Blues’ success this season. Fabregas has also provided plenty of assists for striker Diego Costa which has proved deadly.
CAM – Oscar: The 23-year-old Brazilian has enjoyed a great start to this season after an indifferent campaign last year. Oscar looks to be Mourinho’s favoured player in the ‘number 10’ position and at such a young age, his best years are likely to still be ahead of him.
RW – Griezmann: After a big money move to Atletico, reports suggest Chelsea may be interested in the young Frenchman. He’s made a big impression in Madrid, and that’s caught the attention of a number of clubs. Read more on the reports linking Griezmann to Chelsea HERE.
LW – Eden Hazard: Chelsea’s maverick winger, arguably their best player, is a stand-out performer on top-form and if he remains consistent and injury-free – surely he will have a big campaign next season. Not to mention that he is still only 23 and with years left on his current deal.
ST – Diego Costa: The Spanish striker has proved to be a very successful transfer for Chelsea. He is one of the league’s best strikers and has settled into the team and system immediately. His understanding with Fabregas has seen the pair become one of the deadliest duos in Europe and they will look to continue with their fine form next season.
Here’s how the team looks…
