At long last, a prosperous but equally turbulent season ends for Chelsea. Third place in the Premier League was secured – just about – at almost the last stage, a second UEFA Super Cup was lifted after penalties, they were triumphant in the FIFA Club World Cup versus Brazilian side Palmeiras in extra time. Not to mention featuring in the League Cup and FA Cup finals; Liverpool won both via two penalty shootouts, unfortunately. While the Blues attained quarterfinal status whilst defending their Champions League crown. Real Madrid only just surpassed the West London club in the UCL after a valiant effort.
So, is my verdict of a prospering campaign accurate? I believe so: taking everything into account, it could have been Thomas Tuchel’s team challenging for the quadruple. That is, if a few of the underperforming stars upped their game during the term; along with some debilitating injury issues derailing superb progress. Although, Liverpool and Manchester City both remain ahead; yet a few astute, marquee signings emanating from the Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly consortium can close the gap drastically. And there is now a usually reliable update with regards to when buying, selling and negotiating can restart at Stamford Bridge.
When the Chelsea takeover is due to take place
Before we get too ahead of ourselves, prior to examining the successful bid, there is the matter of a finale clash on Fulham Road. Watford are the Sunday opponents; the Hertfordshire outfit have already been relegated after three bosses had a chance at survival: Xisco Muñoz, Claudio Ranieri and Roy Hodgson coming in from January. It is fair to say that the Hornets would do well to examine their footballing stability model, as it did work but is now faltering.
The main significance of the weekend match – as neither competitors have anything to compete for exactly – is that Roman Abramovich’s era will end at the Bridge. What an illustrious period that was for the faithful for almost 20 years. Football-wise, Chels’ are likely to offer opportunities to some youthful talent via their Under-23s.
Though standout performer and up-and-comer Harvey Vale won’t be involved. The 18-year-old is reportedly ill of late so won’t be involved in the matchday squad; if well, Vale could have taken a place on the substitute’s bench.
Meanwhile, as I talked briefly of earlier, there is speculation that the Boehly-Clearlake takeover should soon be completed and approved by government. To be exact, the middle of the upcoming week; that could potentially be Tuesday May 24, Wednesday May 25, or Thursday the 26th.
Chelsea are confident of confirming the Clearlake-Boehly takeover by the middle of next week. Todd Boehly will also hold further talks with Thomas Tuchel and Emma Hayes as plans continue for the summer.
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) May 22, 2022
As evident above, by way of CBS journalist Ben Jacobs, CFC could announce a deal in as little a two or three days. In addition, as well as being a suggestion which will please the Blues support, Boehly intends to talk again with Tuchel and Chelsea Women’s boss Emma Hayes. The pair of managers had already met the American businessman a short time ago.
A further element of new ownership which is expected and aforementioned by myself, are transfers. And, according to John Cross of The Mirror, Boehly wants to sign two notable players, which is ‘in line’ with the German’s vision for his roster.