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Chelsea Rumours Member Posts
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Greenaway's rumours posts with other poster's replies to Greenaway's rumours posts
15 Jun 2026 10:21:30
BB apparently wanted by Bayern Munich, be nice to move him on, showed some early promise but just not consistent enough for me but was that due to all the chopping and changing at the back? Disasi also attracting a lot of interest.
1.) 15 Jun 2026 12:49:40
Where are you hearing this rumour? Or is it just wishful thinking?
14 Jun 2026 21:53:18
£51.8 million for Cucu is a very smart bit of business by Alonso and the club. He has served us well but isn't a wing back and really would of looked lost in an Alonso system. Who comes in will be interesting and lovely to see Alonso already shaping his squad.
1.) 14 Jun 2026 22:55:50
Greenaway, I can't remember what he cost all those years ago? I seem to remember £50m ish, but I'm not certain.
I wouldn't have a clue if it was an Alonso or SD decision, but he hinted that he wanted to go, so goodbye as far as I am concerned.
I seem to remember a previous poster saying a sale would likely show as a book profit of approx £30m.
I guess we will sell some at a profit and some at a loss, just like most clubs.
2.) 15 Jun 2026 09:28:58
I think Cucurella is one of the best left backs in the world and also perfectly capable of play at left wing back. We paid £60million for him.
Whether this is a very smart piece of business by the club remains to be seen - depends, as always, on who we can get in to replace him and/or back up Hato (who may play LCB if Alonso plays three at the back?) - but I think we are weaker without MC and the goals he gave us (seven times more than Delap?). Problem is that he wanted to go, and we, as a club, do not tend to prevent players leaving if they wish to go, and clearly the best players would like Champions League football, which we spectacularly failed to get.
Yes, we won the (abysmally low standard) Conference League, and then the CWC, but it was a pretty disastrous season, partly a result of fatigue/injuries that ensued. Then, of course, Maresca, having boosted his profile, wanted away to Juventus or City.
Anyway, it may well not be wise to comment much more on whether we will be weaker next season overall until this transfer window is over. Like others, I hope that Alonso will both persuade most of our better players to stay, attract some others in, and be able to offload those not good enough or surplus to requirements.
3.) 15 Jun 2026 09:41:37
JBS, I agree Cucarella had one horrible season, but has generally been very good for us.
I don't like it when players start talking about moving during a season, but my guess is it's driven by agents, and, again, as you say, we don't keep a player if they are not happy.
I assume it will now show as a financial profit on our books, but he also gave a playing return on our investment, and I cannot fault his effort for the club. As you say, too early to judge about replacements, but I am a Hall fan.
4.) 15 Jun 2026 17:09:02
Tom,
I think Hall is earmarked for Man U.
I would not be too fussed if we did not get him, if im honest, I believe he has had a number of injuries.
07 Jun 2026 11:46:28
So it appears we are in for Alejandro Grimaldo to replace Marc Cucurella. Anyone know much about him?
1.) 07 Jun 2026 12:43:57
Nothing from me, I'm afraid, Greenaway, but apparently Alonso likes him.
2.) 07 Jun 2026 18:45:03
Obviously perfect for the Alonso system, technically very good, capable of inverting in the attacking third and being a creative force. His heat maps, under Alonso, show how often he did this. He has a year left on his contract, so won't break the bank. It’s a move that makes a ton of sense to me. I actually think Barco could learn a lot from him, and eventually take over the LWB role permanently. People correctly point out that Barco is more CM than LB now, but I’d argue the LWB role, under Alonso, is more CM than LB, and would see Barco in more positions to use his creative passing, certainly more than he would in the double pivot.
I recommend everyone check out tactical reviews of Alonso's invincible season at Leverkusen. It becomes obvious how important Grimaldo was. My only concern would be him adjusting to the pace of the EPL at this stage of his career, but I think he should be good enough.
3.) 07 Jun 2026 20:12:35
Thanks, J. So you would endorse the signing? Sounds like the owners and sporting directors are buying into Alonso running the show if this one happens.
4.) 07 Jun 2026 22:11:33
100%, it makes a lot of sense in the short term. Also, part of the mentality monster hiring that Alonso wants to do.
5.) 08 Jun 2026 11:49:26
Thanks, J.
6.) 08 Jun 2026 14:31:43
Interesting posts, and thanks for them. I would endorse J's point about Grimaldo. Losing MC would still be a big blow, but given where we ended up after last season's dreadful mid-table mediocrity defining tenth place, it would not be surprising. I can only hope we don't lose EF or JP too, though EF seems a likely loss. It will be a tough job for Alonso to come in at this time, but we all hope he will be our equivalent of Klopp.
Our rivals for the top 4/5 will be strengthening yet further. LFC may improve considerably under Iraola. Our one big advantage should obviously be not having to play much midweek football, and being able to benefit as United (and Bournemouth, Brighton, Sunderland and Brentford!?) did last season.
7.) 08 Jun 2026 16:31:01
JBS
We have a really good squad of players. They were just badly coached.
8.) 08 Jun 2026 22:04:13
Grimaldo will be 31 in Sept, and has played his whole career in Benfica and Germany. He is okay. I would be happier with Hato at LB tbh - if we were to lose Cucurella.
9.) 08 Jun 2026 22:23:33
I think Bill is correct in saying we have a good squad of players. Maresca coached them well, with top 4 last season, 2 pots, and in a comfortable Champions League position this season; when he left, that was sadly undone by Liam and then Ginger.
Celery, I'm with you on Hato, he looks a sublime talent, but I think he really suits that left-sided centre back role in a back 3?
10.) 09 Jun 2026 08:07:25
We are not sure if Alonso is going to play with three at the back, although that seems to have been his favoured historic shape.
If he does go down that route, I'm not sure how that will affect our current wide players?
Of course, he could just look at the squad and play 433.
Grimaldo looked a solid player when I last saw him play. I'm not sure about him as a person/leader, but the manager knows him well, and we have to trust his judgement.
11.) 10 Jun 2026 05:19:12
I wouldn't get too caught up on starting formations, four or three at the back. In possession, Alonso's teams typically end up with three defenders and a pivot sitting deep, with five in the attacking positions. If we were to sign Grimaldo, it would be to fill one of the attacking five positions, from the left hand side.
Garnacho will likely move on, possibly Gittens and Neto too.
Although Neto can play inside, so maybe there's a role for him. Quenda can and has played WB. Estevao and Palmer are both very good options for Alonso's system.
Character-wise, he's been part of a Leverkusen side previously ridiculed as 'Neverkusen'. To go unbeaten in a season, all but one game across all comps, I'd suggest that whole team had great mentality and character - mentality monsters.
12.) 10 Jun 2026 05:23:11
Celery, I suspect we'll see Hato and Acheampong sharing mins, making up what ends up being a back three, with Colwill and a new CB signing.
13.) 10 Jun 2026 13:05:47
J. Yep, when/if Alonso plays a back 3, then I can see Hato (left) and Josh (right) getting some minutes. They are both tremendous players imho - we really do have some great young players.
19 Apr 2026 22:05:39
A few rumours about Simeone tonight. Any truth in it ED01?
{Ed001's Note - not as far as I am aware. Last I heard he will not consider a move away right now as he thinks there is a chance for more titles there.}
1.) 20 Apr 2026 09:40:06
Thanks ED01, he would be a good option although Jose would be perfect. I think it might end up being Lampard though.
{Ed001's Note - I hear Gary O'Neil is available....}
2.) 20 Apr 2026 11:17:10
It wouldn't surprise me ED01 with this lot in charge
3.) 20 Apr 2026 13:25:19
That's it ED001, kick people while they are down.
{Ed001's Note - sorry Bill, that was a very low blow!}
13 Apr 2026 13:01:48
Chelsea dressing room sources indicate a growing disconnect between several players and the manager, with doubts emerging over his tactical direction and in-game decision-making.
While there remains a level of professionalism within the squad, belief in the project appears fractured, particularly among key figures who feel the team lacks a clear identity in crucial moments.
There is also a sense that constant changes in selection, combined with inconsistent performances, have made it difficult for players to fully buy into the manager's ideas.
Some members of the squad are understood to be frustrated with the lack of structure both in and out of possession, which has translated into poor results in decisive games.
Although the club hierarchy continues to back the manager publicly, the internal mood suggests that unless performances improve quickly, maintaining full dressing room support could become an even greater challenge in the coming weeks.
1.) 13 Apr 2026 15:02:28
Probably from the same people who said the players had asked for the Enzo ban to be lifted.
2.) 13 Apr 2026 15:40:43
We have opened ourselves up to a media frenzy. Stand by for "Chelsea in crisis".
This is all down to the SDs/owners bringing in an inexperienced coach.
What's needed is somebody in charge who knows what they are doing, not a private equity business.
3.) 13 Apr 2026 16:01:40
I agree with you, Bill. The media will be stoking the fires for sure, and hopefully the owners get the message that Liam needs to go, and so does the sporting director who appointed him. The model will only work if the core of quality players are kept, and added to with both experienced quality and a proper, decent head coach. Squad wise, you need 3 segments. First segment of 8 or 9 top players who play most games; we probably have 7. The second segment, another 8 or 9 players who are not quite at the top level but are pushing on the door; we probably have 6 players.
And then the final segment will be made up of squad fillers, young prospects from the academy, and players brought in from elsewhere, and we probably have about 14 in this area. That is what needs balancing. It is actually not far off, but someone now needs to grab the bull by the horns and shape our destiny before those core players in segment one move on.
4.) 13 Apr 2026 16:28:44
Just for clarity, I think these players fit into Segment 1.
Marc Cucurella
Reece James
Moises Caicedo
Enzo Fernandez
Joao Pedro
Cole Palmer
Levi Colwill
Segment 2.
Romeo Lavia
Pedro Neto
Trevor Chalobah
Robert Sanchez
Wesley Fofana
Malo Gusto
Segment 3.
Josh Achempong
Hato
Estevao
Essugo
Santos
Gittens
Garnacho
Santos
Delap
Guiu
Malang Sarr
Teddy Sharman Lowe
Jorgensen
Tyrique George
Jessy Derry.
5.) 14 Apr 2026 06:15:13
There's plenty of reports that the owners recognise the less than ideal situation Rosenior finds himself in, having to take over part way through a season, with no pre-season etc. But, if that is recognised, and they do/did genuinely rate him so highly, why put him in that position now? RA was well known for having his patience on a short fuse when it came to form and league position. Managers would often be gone part way through a season. But, at least he recognised that wasn't the time to bring the next permanent manager in, with it often being the experienced Hiddink asked to steady the ship till the end of the season.
Rosenior was on the back foot from the beginning, the fans didn't/don't want him, a fair few of the players probably had to google him when they found out he was going to be head coach, and likely weren't that impressed with what they saw.
But, worst of all, they took him from a decent role, where he was comfortable and doing a good job at his current level, and chucked him into this firestorm. A fast start was never going to be enough for him, he had to be perfect till the end of the season and, obviously, he hasn't been.
They have to stick with him till the end of the season now, but I can't see any sense in him staying on beyond that. The head coach position at Chelsea certainly isn't becoming an easier sale.
6.) 14 Apr 2026 08:58:37
Great post, J.
7.) 14 Apr 2026 09:19:39
J, I couldn't agree more. From the outside, there seemed no need for EM to leave mid-season.
The problem is we have no idea how bad the relationship had become. Also, we don't know if EM just asked to be released immediately.
I think LR will start next season as our manager.
8.) 14 Apr 2026 12:30:34
Tom, I think we'll pick up 8 points between now and the end of the season. That certainly won't be good enough for UCL qualification and might only be good for another trip aboard the Conference League bus! I also don't think it'll be good enough for LR to keep his job.
The FA Cup is about the only thing that could save him, which would be papering over the cracks and this vicious hiring/firing circle will keep on turning.
9.) 14 Apr 2026 14:00:14
J, this is definitely the wrong way for me to look at the manager issues, but I just can't see them sacking another manager so soon after appointing him. Yes, we have done it before, but another sacking doesn't look good without giving the guy a pre season.
10.) 14 Apr 2026 14:47:47
Nor does crashing down the table. Tom, the team have no confidence and the morale is low.
11.) 14 Apr 2026 15:45:17
I'm sure they won't want to sack him. I'm sure the SDs and everyone else who vouched for his appointment will be desperately pushing for him to be retained. But there's just nothing to cling onto with Rosenior, no light at the end of the tunnel, despite a lack of top level European football qualification.
I don't see the lack of a pre-season as justification for just how badly things have turned out since his appointment.
12.) 14 Apr 2026 16:39:37
They knew all this before they appointed LR, and still they went ahead. My gut feel is they will give him a pre season and about ten games before they review the situation again.
13.) 14 Apr 2026 16:41:30
Tom, it has been an absolute catastrophe since Liam was appointed, and we are in total freefall. The players' confidence is shot to pieces. How on earth can anyone justify he stays?
14.) 14 Apr 2026 18:38:13
Greenaway, I'm only guessing, but I would assume the people who appointed him will
recommend he stays. It could well be that would be the only decision they can make to save face.
15.) 14 Apr 2026 20:24:05
So, Tom,
What you are saying is the SDs do not have the club's best interests at heart, instead they just want to save face.
Great that we have these people in charge of recruitment.
16.) 14 Apr 2026 21:04:53
Bill, I am definitely not saying that the SDs and owners don't have the best interests of the club at heart.
There is zero reason to suggest they deliberately employ managers or players that don't work out. That idea would be frankly ridiculous.
17.) 14 Apr 2026 22:14:45
Tom,
You said earlier that you thought the SDs will keep KR to save face, therefore they do not have the best interests of the club at heart, only their own.
18.) 14 Apr 2026 22:34:16
Bill, my theory is the SDs and owners did employ LR because they want what they consider to be best for Chelsea.
As far as "saving face" is concerned, then, yes, I do think that the decision makers will give LR every opportunity to change things around, rather than admit another costly error.
19.) 15 Apr 2026 09:01:03
People with the club's best interest at heart would always admit to an error, and rectify it asap, which should be the end of the season.
20.) 15 Apr 2026 09:22:26
In my opinion, the club have been making managerial errors since Conte, and I didn't want him as our manager either.
My assumption is that every person who has been responsible for all the managerial hires has done so with the best intentions.
21.) 15 Apr 2026 09:44:57
Tom
I agree that all hiring is done with best intentions. However, the issue is keeping a coach who is responsible for players' loss of confidence and morale. I would suggest they are not acting with the club's best interests at heart.
22.) 15 Apr 2026 10:18:27
Bill, I haven't got a clue about players' loss of morale and confidence. Certainly, both are fragile commodities, but can come back with a few positive results.
Last season, with about ten games left of the season, we had posters using the same cliches as they are now.
We finished that season on a positive note, and that should show how quickly things can change.
Let's also not forget that, under all ownerships, mistakes are made, and things do not always get better.
23.) 15 Apr 2026 13:48:06
There surely is going to have to come a time where our owners/sporting directors say this approach isn't working.
Rosenior has to go. The only way the sporting directors could save face is by letting him go and apologising to the fans for making a huge error.
Like others have said, players have completely lost confidence in him, and what he comes out and says is just bizarre.
Every club that has won the league recently or the Champions League has had an experienced manager leading them. We need to follow the data of success.
24.) 15 Apr 2026 14:07:44
Whitey, you may well be right about an experienced manager being an important attribute with such a young squad.
I just can't see the SD's or owners pulling the plug anytime soon.
25.) 16 Apr 2026 08:28:57
Then the plug should be pulled on them, Tom.
26.) 16 Apr 2026 08:44:29
Bill, I may well be wrong, but I seem to remember reading they (SD's) have had their contracts extended.
27.) 16 Apr 2026 16:22:04
Tom
Coaches get 6 year contracts, but that does not stop them being sacked.
28.) 16 Apr 2026 16:53:23
Bill, anyone can get sacked. A bit like LR, I can't see any of the SDs getting sacked, having just been given a vote of confidence with a contract extension.
Greenaway's banter posts with other poster's replies to Greenaway's banter posts
11 Jun 2026 20:31:20.
Looking at the way Alonso will set up our back line, probably a 3, who would my fellow posters bring in at Centre back? I'm assuming Levi, Josh, Hato and Reece James will be in contention with Disasi, BB, Tosin and maybe Fofana moving on with Sarr possibly going on loan.
For me, I would like a JT type, a proper dominant defender, good talker, great with either peg and someone who can organise whilst having that monster mentality Alonso talks about. Not many made like that anymore, maybe a VVD?
1.) 11 Jun 2026 21:56:57
Greenaway, what about Dan Ballard?
2.) 11 Jun 2026 23:38:07
Lacroix would be my first choice, a quick, uncompromising defender, can play right side or central centre back roles. He would pair nicely with Colwill.
For me, he and Colwill would be first choice. Outside of injury, there is no reason they cannot start every league game next season. You then bring Hato or Acheampong in, at LCB or RCB respectively, to make up the three, and share minutes.
I'd keep Tosin and Chalobah as backups, mainly keeping Tosin because he is apparently a strong / positive character in the group. But, outside of Colwill, he's also our best passer out from the back.
3.) 12 Jun 2026 08:42:38
Dean Huijsen for me, and maybe even Thiago Silva as player/coach.
4.) 12 Jun 2026 12:33:05
As I posted ages ago, apparently RM asked about Enzo and we asked them about Huijsen.
For me, that deal would be good business for Chelsea, but I think it's unlikely RM would let him go!!
5.) 12 Jun 2026 14:54:13
I certainly wouldn't turn my nose up at Hoijsen, and I don't think he's a Mourinho type, so not implausible that he sweetens a Fernandez deal. I just feel like we need more of a Rudiger style, physically imposing, aggressive, CB to complement our other CBs.
6.) 12 Jun 2026 22:28:35
Would be a good move, J, in my opinion.
10 Jun 2026 13:24:01
With so much transfer conjecture about both on here, myself included, and in the press oh how much I miss those lists the much loved and much missed ED02 used to provide us with.
1.) 10 Jun 2026 14:38:15
Totally agree Greenaway and it's a pity we don't have our own ED to assist us, no offence ED001.
2.) 10 Jun 2026 19:39:45
TBF, Ed001 always answers our questions and he has his hands full on the Liverpool site especially lately with the Slot saga.
3.) 10 Jun 2026 20:19:41
Jimbo
I agree, ED001 really trys to assist our site but I believe he is more knowledgeable on the Merseyside teams as is ED025 but i'm happy to be corrected.
4.) 10 Jun 2026 21:41:50
ED02 was a Chelsea fan Jimbo and his knowledge was fantastic, we miss that a lot. as Bill correctly says ED01 is a Liverpool fan and I think ED25 is Everton.
5.) 11 Jun 2026 14:39:44
Greenaway, I know all that. Yes, it would be great to have a Chelsea lead, but if one isn't available, we should be grateful. That's all I meant. The Liverpool site appears to have ITKs we don't, but we do have some know it alls. For the avoidance of doubt, that was a joke. :look ?
05 Jun 2026 12:44:50
Well done Chelsea FC and thank you on behalf of all match-going fans.
The Chelsea Supporters Trust welcomes Chelsea FC's decision to freeze all men's first team general admission season ticket and match-by-match ticket prices for the 2026/27 season.
This is a significant and positive decision.
Following a challenging season on and off the pitch, freezing general admission prices is a sensible and welcome step that will provide certainty for match-going supporters ahead of the season ticket renewal window.
The CST has consistently made clear to the club that affordability must remain central to any ticketing policy. We therefore appreciate that the club has listened to the clear representations made by the Chelsea Supporters Trust and the Fan Advisory Board before reaching this decision.
This announcement demonstrates why structured and meaningful engagement between the club and supporters matters.
When supporters' views are properly heard, they can help shape decisions that have a direct impact on match-going fans.
While the freeze in general admission pricing is very welcome, the CST will continue to engage with the club and scrutinise the wider 2026/27 ticketing policy changes. We would also welcome further clarity on the timetable for confirming remaining details, including membership pricing and access arrangements. Our focus remains on ensuring that any changes to ticket access, loyalty, away ticketing, ticket utilisation and the matchday experience are fair, transparent and in the best interests of Chelsea supporters.
The CST will continue to represent the views of our members and wider match-going supporters, and work constructively with the club to ensure supporters remain at the heart of all decision making.
1.) 05 Jun 2026 14:28:51
I choose not to engage with the CST, but last week I sent a detailed BP to FAB suggesting a minimum 50% cut in season ticket prices.
I obviously expected the immediate financial loss, but also pointed out what I consider to be the financial and promotional benefits.
If things run their normal course, I will not get an acknowledgment/reply.
2.) 06 Jun 2026 20:13:41
I went out for a few beers with my oldest mates last night. One of them, a Spurs fan who has a senior concession on his ST, told me that they are incrementally increasing the price each season going forward until it reaches the full price.
3.) 06 Jun 2026 21:25:21
I see concessions as an important reward for long standing loyalty and a way of getting young supporters through the door.
I think the first club to substantially drop ticket prices will make money from other sources. Obviously EPL clubs don't agree with my theory.
01 Jun 2026 20:56:26
Apparently Josh is staying next season as Alonso likes his versatility, can play right of a back 3 and right back/wing back and is physically strong/big and quick.
30 May 2026 21:41:34
And still the only team in London to win the Champions League. Thank you to our fellow members of the blue cartel.
1.) 31 May 2026 12:31:18
Greenaway
Arsenal did not deserve to win the CL. They had a very favourable run in, and the way they 'play' is nothing short of atrocious, which belongs more on the rugby field or, indeed, the NFL.
What I don't get is why referees and their assistants don't pick up on the fact that Arteta is so far out of his technical area that he takes their throw-ins and corners.
2.) 31 May 2026 21:01:11
Bill, absolutely agree. I am really happy that PSG won; a good day for football. I hope next season that match officials get a grip of wrestling in the box, speed up throw ins and corners.
Also, Artita gets away with murder. He needs to be brought to book. Six years to win a title, and he thinks he's special: horrible so and so, can't stand him - I hope Arsenal extend his contract by 10 years.
3.) 01 Jun 2026 10:10:58
I totally agree with you both, and hope that FIFA gets involved at the World Cup and insists that VAR gets a grip on the blatant cheating at set pieces. If they lead from the front, then maybe the Premier League will have to crack down as well. Someone mentioned to me that Arsenal would have been 20 points worse off without their cheating at corners.
08 Jun 2026 22:23:33
I think Bill is correct in saying we have a good squad of players. Maresca coached them well, with top 4 last season, 2 pots, and in a comfortable Champions League position this season; when he left, that was sadly undone by Liam and then Ginger.
Celery, I'm with you on Hato, he looks a sublime talent, but I think he really suits that left-sided centre back role in a back 3?
08 Jun 2026 11:49:26
Thanks, J.
07 Jun 2026 20:12:35
Thanks, J. So you would endorse the signing? Sounds like the owners and sporting directors are buying into Alonso running the show if this one happens.
29 May 2026 11:05:53
That is interesting ED01 that Alonso has changed the targets, that is good to hear.
02 May 2026 09:22:07
Melbourne, I guess it depends on who the new coach will be. Iraola plays a high press, high intensity style of football, so Gordon, Neto, and Jackson would fit well. Alonso plays a back 3 and wingbacks, so neither Neto, Garnacho, nor Gordon would be needed.
15 Jun 2026 18:44:50
Very classy from him, Tom, and he has my best wishes for himself and his family. Jimbo, I totally agree about those former players you mention, who, along with the likes of club legend JT, bleed blue.
12 Jun 2026 21:20:58
It's a banter page, Kaz. Don't get too worried by my opinions or the opinions of Everton fans who clearly feel aggrieved whether or not it is relevant to you. Chill out, bro.
12 Jun 2026 14:01:21
Enzo Fernandez is the first player to come over to us after away games, and also the last to leave. He shows tremendous respect to us away fans, and his name is sung more than any other player.
12 Jun 2026 13:57:50
I guess it will depend on Alonso and whether he wants him or not. He may well have other players in mind.
11 Jun 2026 20:17:43
Maybe not relevant to Liverpool fans, Kaz, but, as Tom said, I just brought up what some Everton fans have been saying. Apparently, they were very aggrieved in the mid 80's to be robbed of revenue from European competitions due to the 5 year ban on English clubs following the Liverpool fan trouble.