Chelsea Fans Express Concern Over Squad Quality as Team Departs for Pre-Season Tour
Chelsea fans have voiced their disappointment and concern over the quality of their team as the squad embarks on their pre-season tour of the United States. Several big-name players have been left behind, some due to injury, while others are on the transfer list and expected to leave the club this summer. This has left the travelling squad somewhat depleted, with only six midfielders making the trip.
The average number of Premier League starts among these midfielders is just 7.6, with Conor Gallagher and Enzo Fernandez being the most senior players in this group. The departures of key midfielders such as Mateo Kovacic, N’Golo Kante, Kai Havertz, and Mason Mount have further exacerbated the concerns of Chelsea fans.
In total, 13 first-team players have left the club on permanent or loan transfers, leading to fears among fans that there is a lack of quality in the squad. To make up the numbers on the pre-season trip, manager Mauricio Pochettino has included several young players, although there are still some familiar faces on the plane, including Raheem Sterling and Mykhailo Mudryk.
The club shared a photo of the squad on the flight, which sparked concern among fans about the lack of strength in depth. One fan expressed their disbelief, saying, “I don’t even recognize half this squad anymore.” Another fan went as far as to say, “This club is finished,” while another admitted, “Who are all these people? I swear I don’t know half of these faces.” Another fan criticized the squad, stating, “Worst squad I’ve seen in two decades.”
Despite these concerns, Chelsea is actively working to improve the squad and has identified Brighton’s Moises Caicedo as one of their main transfer targets. The 21-year-old midfielder has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Chelsea, but the transfer may prove challenging as Brighton is demanding £100 million for his services.
However, Chelsea can take solace in the fact that several key players are set to return from injury in the coming weeks. Players such as Wesley Fofana, Reece James, Benoit Badiashile, Armando Broja, and Marcus Bettinelli are all expected to bolster the squad upon their return.
In conclusion, Chelsea fans have expressed their disappointment and concern over the quality of their team as they embark on their pre-season tour. The departures of key players and the lack of depth in the squad have raised doubts among supporters. However, the club is actively working to strengthen the squad through transfers, and the imminent return of injured players provides hope for a more competitive team in the upcoming season.