Rumoured Exodus May Be What Chelsea FC Need
Chelsea FC have been subject to an abnormally large amount of transfer rumours this January, with several players linked with a Stamford Bridge exit. This may be exactly what the Blues need.
With Chelsea’s awful position in the Premier League and their horrific form throughout the campaign so far, the club have been understandably linked with a number transfers since the window opened. While these have largely been regarding arrivals of continental and international talent, there have been a fair share of rumours discussing some departures.
The likes of Diego Costa, Pedro, Cesc Fabregas and Ramires have all been subjected to speculation. Branislav Ivanovic was another player believed to be on his way out, but the announcement of a one-year contract extension has quashed that talk.
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Some of these rumours have been borne out of poor form, while others are a result of a supposed natural progression. Whatever the reason, given Chelsea’s performances in this campaign, a mass exodus may be exactly what the club needs.
The Blues have endured an unprecedented rough patch and the general consensus is that it has been the fault of the players rather than the tactics, despite Jose Mourinho’s sacking. The squad, bar a few, have provoked the fury of the supporters due to repeatedly uninspired and listless displays. More concerningly, their commitment to the cause has been called into question.
After winning the Premier League and League Cup last season, it is understandable that some hunger may have been missing as this campaign got underway. However, the absolute tripe that Blues fans have had to witness is wholly unjustifiable.
This Chelsea squad has become rather stale and is in dire need of a rebuild. Hence, the departures of some players who appear to be going through the motions could be the starting point.
The likes of Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas are not long-term prospects but quality players with an evidently short shelf life. While the duo have returned to some semblance of form in recent weeks, the former’s injury problems leave his career at the top level continually on the brink. Fabregas, meanwhile, is well past his best.
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With regard to players like Ramires, a divorce would by no means be in bad taste. The Brazilian has been a great servant to the Blues throughout his five-and-a-half years at Stamford Bridge but it may be time for the midfielder to move on.
Meanwhile, some people have criticised Branislav Ivanovic’s contract extension, but it can be objectively justified by the lack of veterans in the squad. Should a rebuild occur, someone like Ivanovic can play the role of the bit-part senior member who fulfils more pastoral and coaching duties.
The departures, though, would free up space in the squad for either new arrivals or promoted youngsters, while the transfer fees raised can be used to fund the reshuffle. Squads need to be constantly refreshed in order to stay on top and Chelsea’s failure to do so has cost them this season.
Furthermore, an exit could be just as beneficial for the player. Settling into the same routine with the same people can sometimes hamper motivation, especially given that the majority of these players have a lot of silverware to their name. A switch can refocus their minds and allow them to effectively enjoy and fulfill the rest of their careers.
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It must be emphasised that none of these exits should be in acrimonious circumstances. All members of the Blues squad, regardless of current form, have certainly paid their dues at Stamford Bridge. However, this season has shown that the club atmosphere has gone stale. A refresh is desperately needed.