Potential Chelsea XI: 2013/14

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Sportskeeda.

This list contains a list of players that are likely to form the core of Chelsea‘s starting XI for next season. Out of all the rumours, some possible transfers (both in and out) have been given importance while the rest of the players will be from the current roster of Chelsea players.

GK: Petr ?ech

With Thibaut Courtois unsure of his future, the Czech Republic first choice keeper looks all set to retain the top spot for the forthcoming season at the moment. Providing viewers with some world class saves over the season, he has shown the world that keepers are an essential part of the team. He also played a crucial part in the Europa League final win over Benfica.

RB: César Azpilicueta

Azpilicueta took some time to break through into the first team; but when he did, he made 27 league appearances in his very first season. His footwork, speed, pitch awareness and decision-making have been phenomenal for a first-year Chelsea player, and at 23, Azpilicueta should be holding down the right-back position for years to come at Chelsea. Also, “Dave” has been a bargain signing for Roman Abramovich.

CB: Branislav Ivanovic

With his heroics across the season, particularly his performance in the Europa League Final which aroused a lot of interest in the viewership for the final, he looks all set to stay at CFC for another season. There is definitely no doubt over his potential even at the age of 29. He is all but certain to stay at West London.

CB: John Terry

He is right for this spot. His charisma and loyalty to the club have contributed well, alongside his amazing skills on the pitch in bringing up the reputation he has today in the heart of Mourinho and others. After a season in which he seldom started, now with Mourinho back as the manager, he will look for a better time with the club he first played for in his teens. And with reports already emerging that Neymar’s agent is working on a possible move for the versatile defender, David Luiz, to Barcelona, Terry will have an important role to play.

LB: Ashley Cole

It was hard to choose between Cahill and JT for the centre back spot, but as a left back, Cole has emerged the front runner by far despite the injuries and irregularities he suffered last season. He is one of the finest left backs in the world and is dominating the pitch even at this age. Also, with no left backs being linked to the West Londoners this time around, he will surely stay with one more year left on his contract.

CM: Frank Lampard

Now the question arises that how will Chelsea do without a CDM (which I have excluded in this formation). But it’s not the case with Mourinho who favours 2 central midfielders, as we can infer from his time in Madrid. So we will go with 2 central midfielders. First one on the list is Lampard. Needless to say, Lampard was a standout performer last season while also becoming the club’s all-time top scorer in the process. His relationship with the manager is also really very strong.

CM: Ramires Santos do Nascimento

I would say the kind of speed and agility Ramires possesses, combined with the tactical formation and the surrounding players, gives him a certainty of a spot in the team next season after providing seven goals and eight assists in all competitions, including the Europa League which CFC won.

LW: Eden Hazard

This young Belgian, at the age of only 22, has won the hearts and praises of many. He is aiming to batter 50+ goals in the coming season just like Messi and Ronaldo, and he certainly has the requisite combination of skills, passion and experience to help Chelsea retain the CL trophy they won under the reign of Di Matteo. He deserves this spot on the left wing.

RW: Hulk

Hulk has been chosen for this spot due to the reports suggesting he is ready to sign for CFC for 35 million pounds. Having already being linked to Chelsea so many times in the past 2-3 seasons, this time he will be looking forward to join Mourinho at Chelsea. His speed, shooting power, versatility, strength and other factors can help Chelsea immensely. André Schürrle can also fit in at this spot, but Hulk remains top choice.

CAM: Wesley Sneijder

Juan Mata has not been given this position as Mourinho is thinking of letting him go to another club. And at this point in time, Kevin De Bruyne’s future is uncertain as he might end up playing for Leverkusen on loan as part of the André Schürrle deal. Then, Oscar Dos Santos is obviously there to help the West Londoners but with Sneijder hinting at a reunion with the former Inter manager, he has been chosen in the starting XI ahead of Oscar.

ST: Edinson Cavani

Chelsea need to boost their attack and Cavani is the right man they need to pursue after Radamel Falcao ditched them and several other top European clubs to sign for AS Monaco. Reports have also emerged that Mourinho is preparing a high profile bid for the former Internazionale star, but current reports about Cavani coming to West London are far more popular and more reputable. Also, in this deal CFC could bid farewell to Torres who might move to Napoli for the deal to blossom.

Given below is the formation diagram:

Please don’t be disappointed if your desired player didn’t feature. Discuss your XI in the comments below.