Cesc Fabregas on his time at Chelsea

 🗣️ Cesc Fabregas: "Being at Chelsea is something that I will never regret in my life; in fact completely the opposite.

I will always talk about Chelsea and about my time at Chelsea as probably the best decision of my career."

Let’s celebrate a Legend

 Today we remember the legendary Peter Osgood on the 20th anniversary of his passing. 💙

#trend #trending #viral #football #chelseafc 

Rosenior has revealed he is tailoring his tactics for the short term of this season

 🚨 Rosenior has revealed he is tailoring his tactics for the short term of this season, hinting we may see his true idea of coaching next season : 

“Arsenal are a very physical, high pressing, high energy team. I want us to be high pressing and high energy as well but you can’t solve that in a short space of time. Hopefully that comes over months, years” 

“ It’s OK in your mind to say, “I want to play this way”. But you have to tailor that to the players, and their experiences, and where they are at this stage of the season” 

“You can't come in and completely change their training schedule and what they are used to, because they will get injured. This is a longer term thing for me to address..” 

“At the moment, my focus, and the way we work, is game by game, what's best for these players to win. That’s how it's going to be for the rest of the season.’

(@MailSport)

Video: Friday Seasion💪🏽

 

Liam Rosenior when asked how he feel about the #UCLdraw and Chelsea taking on PSG in the R-16;

 🔵|🗣 "The ucl draw was very fair, I like it. Taking on psg in our next round doesn't seemed like a surprise to my team and I, the boys all smiles when they heard Chelsea draw psg in the next round of the champions League. I was expecting it as well, so I'm not surprise".

"My team will be ready to go into the competition and win every possible games on our way. Winning the UCL title isn't a simple task, but we are Chelsea, we are going to play against every opponent with the mindset of winning it."

BRYAN MBEUMO SHARES INSIGHTS ON CHILDHOOD IDOLS NEYMAR AND EDEN HAZARD

Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo has opened up about the football icons who inspired him during his formative years, naming Neymar and Eden Hazard as key figures in his development as a player.**  

The 26-year-old Cameroonian international, who joined United from Brentford in a high-profile transfer, reflected on his idols during an appearance on the club's official podcast, *Inside Carrington*. Mbeumo, known for his pace, skill, and goal-scoring prowess, revealed how these superstars shaped his love for the game.  

"I had a few growing up. It was Neymar when I was a kid. And after, it was Hazard," Mbeumo stated. He elaborated on Hazard's influence, saying, "My idol growing up was Eden Hazard. I wanted to be like him".  

Mbeumo's admiration for the former Chelsea and Real Madrid winger, as well as the Brazilian sensation Neymar, highlights the global influences that have molded his career. Since arriving at Old Trafford, Mbeumo has contributed significantly to United's attacking line, scoring crucial goals in the Premier League and European competitions.  

Head Coach [Current Head Coach] commented: "Bryan brings that flair and creativity to our team, inspired by the best in the business. It's great to hear about the players who motivated him—it's a reminder of why we all love this game."  

Manchester United continues to support its players in sharing their personal stories, fostering a connection with fans worldwide. The full podcast episode is available on the club's official channels.  

CHELSEA ANTICIPATES CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ROUND OF 16 DRAW: POTENTIAL MATCHUPS AGAINST NEWCASTLE UNITED OR PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN

Chelsea Football Club is gearing up for the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 draw, set to take place tomorrow in Nyon, Switzerland, where the Blues will be drawn against either Premier League rivals Newcastle United or reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain.**  

Having secured a top-eight finish in the league phase, Chelsea earned a seeded spot, bypassing the play-off round and positioning themselves to face one of the winners from the knockout play-offs: PSG versus Monaco or Newcastle against Qarabag. Newcastle advanced with a commanding 9-3 aggregate victory over Qarabag, while PSG progressed after a tense 4-3 aggregate win over Monaco, highlighted by a 2-2 draw in the second leg at Parc des Princes.  

A matchup against Newcastle would mark an all-English clash in the knockout stages, adding domestic rivalry to the European spotlight, while facing PSG could reignite memories of Chelsea's triumph over the Parisians in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final. The draw, scheduled for 11am UK time on February 27, 2026, will also outline potential paths to the quarter-finals and semi-finals.  

Head Coach Liam Rosenior commented on the upcoming draw: "We're excited for whatever comes our way. Both Newcastle and PSG are formidable opponents with rich histories in the competition. Our focus remains on performing at our best in every match as we aim to progress deep into the tournament."  

Chelsea's strong league phase performance has set the stage for an intriguing knockout campaign, with the Round of 16 ties slated for March 10/11 and 17/18, 2026. The club looks forward to the challenge and will provide further updates following the draw.  

LUIS ENRIQUE COMMENTS ON POTENTIAL CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ROUND OF 16 MATCHUP AGAINST CHELSEA

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has shared his thoughts on the upcoming UEFA Champions League Round of 16 draw, expressing a preference for facing Chelsea over his former club Barcelona, while acknowledging the challenge posed by both teams.**  

Following PSG's qualification to the knockout stages, Enrique addressed the possibility of drawing either Chelsea or Barcelona in an interview with Movistar. "I've been asked whether I'd rather face FC Barcelona or Chelsea F.C.… and honestly, I think Chelsea would be the better option for us right now," he said. Elaborating on his reasoning, Enrique noted, "Barcelona are playing with a lot of confidence, a lot of rhythm. In the Champions League, you have to be smart. If I can choose, I’d choose Chelsea."  

Despite his preference, Enrique emphasized PSG's readiness for any opponent: "We are ready to play against any team. Barcelona or Chelsea, it's going to be great." He further described both clubs as formidable, stating, "Neither will be easy. Since it doesn’t depend on me, I’ll adapt to whatever comes. They are two incredible teams."  

Reflecting on the emotional aspect of potentially returning to Barcelona, where he enjoyed success as both a player and manager, Enrique added, "Emotionally Barca is a very special team for me." He concluded, "Whether it's Camp Nou or Chelsea, none is easy. I will adapt to whatever comes."  

Chelsea Head Coach Liam Rosenior responded to Enrique's remarks: "Luis Enrique is a world-class manager, and his comments reflect the respect between top clubs in Europe. We're prepared for whatever the draw brings and look forward to the challenge in the Champions League."  

The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 draw is scheduled for later this week, with Chelsea positioned as a potential opponent for PSG following the group stage outcomes. Chelsea remains focused on their domestic and European campaigns, aiming to progress deep into the tournament.  

🚨🗣️ Luis Enrique:

"We are ready to play against any team, Barcelona or Chelsea.. It will be a great match."

Last vs Barcelona: Barcelona 1–4 PSG

Last vs Chelsea: Chelsea 3–0 PSGpic.twitter.com/HKC7eAMVxT

— Goals Side (@goalsside) February 26, 2026

FORMER HEAD COACH ENZO MARESCA SHARES POSITIVE REFLECTIONS ON CHELSEA TENURE IN RECENT INTERVIEW

Chelsea Football Club acknowledges the recent comments made by former head coach Enzo Maresca in an interview, where he reflected fondly on his time at Stamford Bridge and the achievements during his tenure.**  

Maresca, who led Chelsea from June 2024 until his departure earlier this season, spoke candidly about his experiences. "To be honest my time at Chelsea was great, it was a beautiful start you know? I love everything about Chelsea," he stated. He highlighted the unexpected nature of his appointment: "When I was contacted about the job, I didn't know it was going to be possible for me to be the selected one, because there was umm Luis Enrique and Julian Nagelsmann on the lists of the managers they were looking for. So lucky I got appointed."  

The Italian coach also praised the successes during his first year: "I must say I love my first one year at the club because we won two major trophies". Under Maresca's guidance, Chelsea secured the UEFA Conference League and returned to the UEFA Champions League, marking a period of notable progress for the squad.  

However, Maresca expressed disappointment over the circumstances leading to his exit: "I thought I was going to be there for a long time, but unfortunately that is no more. When you don't feel supported at your job, it's better to quit and find a new challenge". He concluded by hinting at future plans: "For now I'm just taking some time to rest and refresh on my last job before I fully take over the new one which I'm sorry, won't say to you now. But you'll see me soon."  

Current Head Coach Liam Rosenior responded to Maresca's remarks: "Enzo did a tremendous job laying foundations for our current success. We wish him all the best in his next chapter and appreciate his contributions to Chelsea."  

The club remains focused on the ongoing 2025/26 season, building on the momentum established under previous leadership while pursuing objectives in the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and domestic cups.  

CHELSEA FC CELEBRATES LEVI COLWILL'S 23RD BIRTHDAY AND REFLECTS ON HIS OUTSTANDING CAREER JOURNEY

Chelsea Football Club extends warm birthday wishes to defender Levi Colwill as he turns 23 today, February 26, 2026. The Southampton-born centre-back, a product of the club's esteemed academy, continues to embody the spirit of perseverance and talent that defines Chelsea.**  

Born Levi Lamar Samuels Colwill on February 26, 2003, in Southampton, England, Colwill joined Chelsea at under-nine level through the development centre programme after a brief stint with Sunday League side City Central, where he played alongside future Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala. Standing at 1.87m (6ft 2in), the left-footed defender signed his first professional contract with the Blues on his 17th birthday in February 2020, marking the beginning of a promising senior career.  

Colwill's development included successful loan spells that honed his skills. In the 2021/22 season, he featured 31 times for Huddersfield Town in the Championship, scoring twice and helping the team reach the play-off final. The following year, a loan to Brighton & Hove Albion saw him make 17 Premier League appearances, gaining valuable top-flight experience under Roberto De Zerbi.  

Returning to Chelsea, Colwill made his competitive debut on August 13, 2023, and has since accumulated 58 appearances for the first team, scoring three goals. His versatility as a centre-back or left-back has made him a key asset, earning him a new six-year contract in August 2023, with an option for an additional year, extending potentially to 2030. Internationally, Colwill has represented England at various youth levels before progressing to the senior national team, showcasing his potential on the global stage.  

Currently recovering from a cruciate ligament injury sustained in pre-season, Colwill is making steady progress in his rehabilitation at Cobham, with the club prioritizing his long-term fitness. Head Coach Liam Rosenior commented: "Levi is a tremendous talent and a true professional. On his birthday, we celebrate not just his achievements but his dedication to Chelsea. We're excited for his return and continued contributions."  

The entire Chelsea family wishes Levi a happy birthday and looks forward to many more milestones in his Blues career.  

Historic Milestone: Six Premier League Clubs Advance to UEFA Champions League Round of 16

In an unprecedented display of English football dominance, six Premier League clubs have secured their places in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League round of 16, marking a record-breaking achievement for the English top flight in Europe’s premier club competition.

The qualified teams are:

• Arsenal (top of the league phase with an impeccable record)
• Liverpool
• Tottenham Hotspur
• Manchester City
• Chelsea
• Newcastle United (having advanced through the knockout phase play-offs with a convincing aggregate victory)

This is the first time in Champions League history that six clubs from the same nation have reached the round of 16 under the competition’s expanded format. The Premier League’s remarkable success underscores the depth, quality, and competitiveness of English football, with teams from the division occupying six of the eight direct qualification spots from the league phase top eight, plus additional progression via the play-offs.

Arsenal finished the league phase unbeaten in first place, while Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, and Manchester City also demonstrated exceptional consistency to claim seeded positions. Newcastle United completed the English contingent by overcoming their play-off challenge, ensuring an all-Premier League presence that represents nearly 40% of the round of 16 field.

With the round of 16 draw set for Friday, excitement is building as fans anticipate potential high-stakes matchups — including the possibility of all-English ties later in the knockout stages. The Premier League’s commanding performance not only highlights individual club excellence but also strengthens England’s position at the top of UEFA’s coefficient rankings, paving the way for continued European opportunities.

This historic moment reaffirms the Premier League as the strongest domestic league in world football and sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling chase for the trophy in Budapest.

Quotes
“The qualification of six English clubs to the Champions League round of 16 is a testament to the incredible talent, tactical innovation, and competitive spirit across the Premier League.” — Premier League spokesperson

John Obi Mikel on Chelsea recent performance

 🗣️  John Obi Mikel: "We had Enzo Maresca. I've said it, I think it was a massive mistake to sack him.

I mean, it's ridiculous. Yeah, a manager that won us the Club World Cup, won us the Conference League, we had some sort of identity the way we played.

We took a step forward, and we've gone five steps backwards. Liam has come in and he's won games, but there is absolutely something that is missing. Something is not quite right."

~ @obionepodcast

Sam Kerr celebrated 150 Chelsea appearance with a goal against Manchester United in the Women's FA Cup 💪

 Chelsea FC Women today proudly celebrated a significant milestone as star striker Sam Kerr marked her 150th appearance for the club in style, scoring a crucial goal in a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Manchester United in the Women’s FA Cup fifth round.

The match, played at Kingsmeadow, served as a thrilling preview to the upcoming League Cup final between the two sides. Kerr, who had been presented with a commemorative shirt before kick-off to honor her achievement, entered the game as a second-half substitute and transformed the contest.

With Chelsea pushing for a breakthrough in a tightly contested encounter, Kerr struck in the 78th minute. Receiving a headed flick-on from Veerle Buurman’s nod across goal following Ellie Carpenter’s curling cross, the Australian international swept a low, composed finish across goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce and into the bottom corner. The goal, her ninth in 10 career appearances against Manchester United, gave Chelsea a vital lead and perfectly encapsulated Kerr’s enduring impact since joining the club in January 2020.

Though Manchester United equalized shortly after through Simi Awujo to force extra time, Naomi Girma’s extra-time winner secured Chelsea’s progression to the FA Cup quarter-finals.

Kerr’s milestone comes after overcoming a challenging 22-month absence due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained in January 2024. Her return to form has been evident, and this goal on her 150th outing underscored her status as one of the most prolific forwards in the women’s game.

Chelsea FC Head Coach Sonia Bompastor praised Kerr’s influence: “Sam is a special player and a huge part of what we do. To reach 150 appearances and score in such an important match against a top rival is testament to her quality, mentality, and dedication. Moments like this inspire the team and our fans.”

Kerr, who has contributed immensely to Chelsea’s trophy haul—including multiple Women’s Super League titles, FA Cups, and Continental Cups—expressed her delight post-match: “150 games for this incredible club means so much to me. Scoring today in front of our supporters was the perfect way to celebrate. We’re building something special here, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

Chelsea now look ahead to the FA Cup quarter-finals and their League Cup final against Manchester United on March 15, where Kerr’s experience and goal-scoring prowess will be key once again.

Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen speaking on Jorrel Hato

🗣️: “It is a disappointing move for Jorrel Hato because he was absolutely outstanding for Ajax at the time,” Meulensteen said, via Metro.

“He was very, very young and was the captain, which says a lot about the trust the manager put in him in terms of his personality and his leadership qualities.

“Then a club like Chelsea comes in because they want to pick up all the best players here, there, and everywhere. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they fit in with the way the team wants to play. He’s been one of the guys who hasn’t really settled.

“Yes, he can get a big paycheck and a lot of money in the bank, but young players should be playing. Nobody can guarantee success for players wherever they go, but you want to get a sense of the manager’s plan and what he has planned for you.

“He is also versatile, he can play left-back, centre-back, or as a number six. He is technically very, very good.”

[Via @EPLIndex]

Jason Burt on Cole Palmer subs:

“I really did not like Cole Palmer's reaction. I think that's got to stop you. Can do it once, but he's doing it every time he gets substituted.

Now, if I'm Rosenior, I'm saying to him, 'okay, fine, but look at yourself. You miss chances. I had to take somebody off. And it had to be you look at your own game as well.”

[@SkySportsNews]