The Squad: A Blend of Grit, Glitz, and New Kids on the Block
Chelsea’s 28-man traveling party for the FIFA World Club Cup is out, and it’s like a perfectly curated playlist—some classic hits, a few new bangers, and one or two surprise remixes. Here’s the full lineup:
Goalkeepers: Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen, Lucas Penders, Gaga Slonina
Defenders: Marc Cucurella, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Levi Colwill, Malang Sarr, Trevoh Chalobah, Reece James, Malo Gusto, Aaron Anselmino, David Acheampong
Midfielders: Enzo Fernandez, Dario Essugo, Andrey Santos, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia
Forwards: Pedro Neto, Liam Delap, Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku, Tyrique George, Marc Guiu
No major plot twists here, as yesterday’s whispers pretty much nailed it. Andrey Santos is the only returning loanee making the cut, while young shot-stopper Gaga Slonina sneaks in after cutting his loan short in January due to a hand injury—talk about a comeback kid! The new signings—Liam Delap, Dario Essugo, Malang Sarr, and Lucas Penders—are all aboard, ready to make their mark. Aaron Anselmino also gets a nod, but no Kendry Paez or Mathis Amougou this time. Guess they’re saving those wonderkids for another blockbuster.
New Signings to Watch: Can They Steal the Show?
Chelsea’s transfer window has been busier than a Starbucks on Monday morning, and the Club Cup is the perfect stage for the newbies to shine. Liam Delap, the ex-Manchester City striker, brings raw power and a knack for goals—think of him as a young Drogba with a modern twist. Dario Essugo, the midfield dynamo, could add some steel to the engine room, while Malang Sarr’s defensive versatility is a sneaky asset. Lucas Penders, the young goalkeeper, might be low on the pecking order but could be one for the future.
Tactical Tidbits: How Might Chelsea Line Up?
So, how’s Enzo Maresca going to set up this squad? If we’re playing Football Manager in our heads, expect a 4-2-3-1 that’s become Chelsea’s go-to. Sanchez likely holds the gloves, with a backline of James, Colwill, Badiashile, and Cucurella—because who doesn’t love a bit of Spanish flair at left-back? In midfield, Caicedo and Fernandez are the heartbeat, with Lavia or Essugo ready to crash the party. Up top, Cole Palmer’s magic wand of a right foot will pull the strings, flanked by Neto and Madueke, with Jackson or Delap leading the line.