Premier League: What to expect from Chelsea in 2019-20?
Premier League giants Chelsea will hope to continue their fine run and win a title in the upcoming 2019-20 season. The 2017-18 Europa League winners have an interesting season ahead under former club legend and current boss Frank Lampard. Notably, in 2018-19, under Maurizio Sarri, they finished the season at the third spot. Here we decode what to expect from Chelsea in 2019-20.
Lampard replaced Maurizio Sarri, who left for Juventus after just one season. Under Sarri, Chelsea finished in top four, besides winning an European trophy and earning a League Cup finale place. New boss and three-time Premier League winner Lampard will be wanting to inculcate the winning mentality into his coaching stint here. Chelsea are currently in Japan for their pre-season.
Lampard comes in at a crunch situation, as the Blues have been handed a two-window transfer ban by FIFA. Chelsea are appealing against the same at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Lampard could be key here. He knows the youth system in and out and will give youngsters the chance to flourish here. This is a big chance for youngsters to impress him.
Chelsea's forward line can promise goals. Michy Batshuayi and Tammy Abraham finally have a chance to get going here after multiple loan spells. Olivier Giroud remains the most experienced. The impact of seasoned stars Pedro and Willian will be crucial. With Pulisic present as well, there is a nice blend in attack. Then there is the promising Callum Hudson-Odoi. His pace can unsettle teams.
Chelsea have the personnel to do well despite not being able to sign new players. The departure of Eden Hazard is a blow, but the presence of debutant Christian Pulisic is a big positive. He will be keen to make his mark and fill in the void left by legend Hazard. The former Borussia Dortmund youngster will be aiming to strike the right chords.
The mid-field is Chelsea's strength. N'Golo Kante, Mateo Kovacic, Ross Barkley, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Jorginho form a strong unit. Youngster Mason Mount will get some chances. The club also has some players that add further strength in this department. One can still expect departures. The defense looks a bit weak. Lampard will need to rotate his players well.
Lampard's aim will be to help the team challenge for a top four berth. There is Champions League football on offer as well. The task will be to go as far as possible and win a trophy. Chelsea open their EPL campaign against Manchester United.
