July 25, 2052 — Chelsea’s pre-season tour ahead of the 2052/53 season has wrapped up with mixed results, thrilling debuts, and one unfortunate defensive calamity. With a Community Shield clash against Manchester United just around the corner, Calin Dimario has plenty to ponder.
✅ Chelsea 6–1 Real Sociedad
The Blues opened with a bang at Drogba Arena, dismantling La Real with flair and purpose. Júnior, Scott Crichton, and Ariel Cardoso starred as Chelsea ran riot, with new Brazilian arrivals quickly integrating into the system.
✅ HSV 1–3 Chelsea
Goals from Netanel Sahar, Joseph Haigh, and Jairzinho saw off the German outfit in Hamburg. Hilgers and Colombo impressed in build-up play, and there were signs the midfield trio of Lahyane–Beya–Cardozo is starting to gel.
❌ Villarreal 3–1 Chelsea
A sharp reality check in Spain. Villarreal exploited defensive errors and exposed Chelsea’s soft underbelly on the counter. Jairzinho was a rare bright spark, earning a 7.0 rating, while Elias Curzel’s late own goal summed up a chaotic afternoon.
🧪 Tactical Tweaks & Squad Depth
New signings Marcelo and Gérson featured prominently across all three matches, though neither fully impressed. Chancel Beya and Christian Colombo held their own, but the back line as a unit looked disjointed — something Dimario must address before the Super Cup and league kickoff.
🗓️ What’s Next?
- Aug 4: Community Shield vs Manchester United
- Aug 8: Premier League opener vs Newcastle
- Aug 14: UEFA Super Cup vs Liverpool
Pre-season showed flashes of brilliance, but also warning signs. Chelsea remain dangerous, but the post-Malcolm, post-Nielsen era demands new leaders and better balance. The serious stuff starts now.
— Football Manager Stories Editorial