Chelsea, one of the powerhouses in the Premier League, is always a team to watch. Fans and experts alike are excited to see how they’ll fare in the upcoming season. Their journey will depend on their summer changes, the players’ form, and luck. Here’s a closer look at the major changes and the potential impact on Chelsea’s odds of lifting the trophy this Premier League 2023/24 season.
Summer Changes
New Manager
Chelsea has taken a bold step by appointing Mauricio Pochettino as their new head coach. With a contract from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2025, Pochettino combines experience, excellence, and a distinct tactical approach. Known for his high-energy gameplay, Pochettino’s appointment has undoubtedly got the football world talking. The Argentine’s leadership and commitment to development make him an exciting prospect for the Blues.
Players Who Left and Joined the Club
Arrivals:
- Moisés Caicedo from Brighton for €116.00m
- Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig for €60.00m
- Axel Disasi from Monaco for €45.00m
- Nicolas Jackson from Villarreal for €37.00m
- Levi Colwill promoted from Chelsea U21
Departures:
- Kai Havertz to Arsenal for €75.00m
- Mason Mount to Man Utd for €64.20m
- Mateo Kovacic to Man City for €29.10m
- Ruben Loftus-Cheek to AC Milan for €16.00m
- Christian Pulisic to AC Milan for €20.00m
Additionally, there’s speculation about Romelu Lukaku’s future at the club. With links to Inter Milan, Juventus, and Tottenham, and a potential price tag of £35m, Chelsea might see another big name leaving Stamford Bridge.
New Captain
Reece James, who has been with Chelsea since he was six, has been announced as the new club captain, taking over from Cesar Azpilicueta. With almost two decades at Chelsea, James is expected to lead the team with the same passion and dedication he’s shown throughout his career in Premier League.
Injury Problems
Injuries can play a pivotal role in a team’s success. Chelsea’s list of injured players includes key names:
- Christopher Nkunku is expected to return in January 2024.
- Reece James faced fatigue issues but no major concerns.
- Noni Madueke recently got back from a hamstring injury.
- Benoit Badiashile is expected back for the game against Luton on August 25.
- Armando Broja, no return date was specified after an ACL injury.
- Wesley Fofana faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a ruptured ACL.
Possible Starting 11
Given the new signings, departures, and current squad composition, the possible starting lineup for Chelsea in the 2023-2024 Premier League season could be:
- Goalkeeper: Robert Sánchez – A reliable choice between the posts, given his market value and experience.
- Right-Back: Reece James – As the new club captain, he will be an automatic choice.
- Center-Backs: Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill – Despite Fofana’s injury concerns, he’s a solid choice when fit. Colwill’s promotion and potential make him a great pairing.
- Left-Back: Marc Cucurella – His recent addition suggests he might be the primary choice for the left defensive flank.
- Defensive Midfield: Moisés Caicedo – Being one of the top arrivals, he’s likely to anchor the midfield.
- Central Midfielders: Enzo Fernández and Conor Gallagher – Both have shown promise and can provide the necessary balance in the middle.
- Right Winger: Noni Madueke – His talent and market value indicate he’ll be a key player on the right.
- Left Winger: Mykhaylo Mudryk – Given his potential and the emphasis on including him, Mudryk will be a primary choice on the left flank.
- Centre-Forward: Nicolas Jackson – After a significant transfer, Jackson will be the focal point of Chelsea’s attack.
Substitutes will include the likes of Christopher Nkunku (once he returns from injury), Raheem Sterling, and Romelu Lukaku (if he remains at the club). Pochettino will also be flexible to shuffle and adapt based on opponent strength and game strategy.
Odds predictions
In football, these odds can predict everything from which team might win the league to which player might become the top scorer. Consulting online sportsbooks can provide valuable insights for those interested in making an informed bet this season. Let’s break down the Chelsea odds and their Premier League competitors for the 2023-2024 season.
Premier League Winner Odds
Having dominated the EPL recently, Manchester City is a favorite to clinch the Premier League title again. However, Chelsea, with its new signings and a refreshed squad, finds itself in the mix, albeit slightly behind some of its top-tier rivals:
- Manchester City: -150
- Arsenal: +450
- Liverpool: +800
- Manchester United: +1000
- Chelsea: +1200
- Newcastle: +1600
Premier League Top Four Odds
Securing a top-four finish ensures a spot in the lucrative Champions League, making this a crucial goal for many Premier League clubs:
- Manchester City: -3000
- Arsenal: -225
- Liverpool: -190
- Manchester United: -138
- Chelsea: +138
- Newcastle: +150
Premier League Top Six Odds
With European competition spots up for grabs, the battle for the Premier League top six is always fierce:
- Manchester City: -20000
- Arsenal: -1200
- Liverpool: -650
- Manchester United: -450
- Chelsea: -250
- Newcastle: -200
Premier League Relegation Odds
While the top of the table battles for glory, teams at the bottom scramble to avoid the drop to the Championship. Here are the groups perceived to be in danger:
- Luton Town: -300
- Sheffield United: -150
- Bournemouth: +250
- Nottingham Forest: +250
Premier League Golden Boot Odds
The race to be the league’s top scorer is hotly contested every season. Erling Haaland is the favorite, but Chelsea’s new signing, Christopher Nkunku, and Nicolas Jackson are both in contention:
- Erling Haaland: -135
- Christopher Nkunku: +2500
- Nicolas Jackson: +3300
Bottom Line
The EPL always captivates fans worldwide with its twists, turns, and unpredictable nature. As the 2023-2024 season unfolds, the race for the Premier League title is set to be as exhilarating as ever. With their revamped squad and new managerial direction, Chelsea is poised to challenge the top spots, again aiming to assert themselves as Premier League champions.
For fans interested in football betting, the odds offer a broad perspective on how the season might pan out. However, it’s essential to remember that in the PL, anything can happen. A team’s fortunes can change with a single injury, a managerial change, or even a surprising transfer. The Premier League Golden Boot race will also be a thrilling subplot to the main narrative, with players from various teams, including Chelsea’s own, vying for the coveted accolade.
In conclusion, as the Premier League drama unfolds, whether you’re a passionate fan cheering for your team or an enthusiast trying to predict the following significant result in betting, one thing is sure: the EPL will deliver unparalleled excitement and suspense. Here’s to another unforgettable season.