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The date May 19th 2012, will forever be etched in Chelsea’s history books. For the first time in their history, the Blues won the prestigious UEFA Champions League and with it realized the vision of the Russian billionaire and owner, Roman Abramovich. It is unbelievable to look back at the start of the year, where they were all but ruled out of the Premier League title, struggled to stay in the top four, knocked out of the League Cup and almost exited the Champions League at the group stage. The axing of Andre Villas-Boas brought forth a significant turn-around in fortunes, enabling them to win two trophies despite a sixth place league finish.
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Yet, in the space of one week from that famous win, there is a lot of uncertainty around Stamford Bridge. They are in the market for a permanent manager, and while Roberto di Matteo has done a sterling job, he does not have the owner’s trust on a long term basis. This is but a minor concern.
The biggest challenge is that there is going to be a major overhaul of the squad. Anelka left during the winter, while Salomon Kalou issued a ‘come and get me’ plea before the Champions League final. Fernando Torres held showdown talks with the owner and seems very unsettled about his role, while Didier Drogba, the man who won them the Champions League, has openly stated that he would be leaving the club. Where does this leave the club then ?
Starting from right at the back, Cech has signed an extension till 2016, however, there is no quality backup should he get injured. Courtouis has been stunning this season for Atletico, and even if he returns to London, warming the benches is all he would be doing. The once feared back line, now consists of an aging John Terry who is starting to serve more bans than earlier. Branislav Ivanovic is a solid defender but David Luiz is, on the contrary, a Brazilian with a natural instinct to attack. Ryan Bertrand is talented but is prone to mistakes, while Bosingwa has been released and Ashley Cole is slowly but surely nearing the end of his tether.
The midfield has to revolve around Meireles,Ramires and Mata, with Lampard relegated to a bit-part role. Behind them, there is only cover in form of Romeu. And Drogba’s absence will be felt greatly, especially if Torres continues his wastefulness in front of goal. Of their strike force, there is only Sturridge left (Lukaku was so under-utilized that he is no longer in anyone’s radar).
New players have already started arriving, most notably, in the form of Belgian play-maker Eden Hazard. There will definitely be more arrivals, but how will they fit in Chelsea scheme of things. Is the Champions League success worth two to three years of rebuilding the squad. Only time will tell.
