Chelsea FC has gone from instant success with Roman Abramovich to a club most known for firing managers. Last week, Di Matteo was told to pack his things and leave, and Rafa Benitez was brought in a short term. But who would be manager for Abramovich's team?

Since the Russian took over Chelsea in 2003, he has fired seven of his last eight managers - Guus Hiddink left after four months as temporary manager. The hiring of Rafa Benitez has been met with anger by the Chelsea fans, and Ambramovich seems to be more and more in a clinch with the supporters. The fact that Di Matteo was being sacked, did not come as a shock, however, it has raised eyebrows around the world given he won the Champions League last season.

However, the situation in Chelsea gives a view of an owner that is unhappy with transformation in his club. Andres Villas-Boas started a reformation of Chelsea, but was not given the chance to complete it; Di Matteo continued this, in some sent, but only got six months behind the wheel. It is obvious for everyone  that Di Matteo was not the man that Abramovich wanted, but he had to give him the chance after the Champions League title. For the Russian, there is only one man: Pep Guardiola.

Guardiola is currently taken a break from football and has refused to coach any club this year. The solution for Roman Abramovich was to bring in another Spaniard - against the fans will - Rafa Benitez. Even though the fans- and as latest reports suggests: the players -  doesn't like the new man, he might be the future for Chelsea. Why? Because the club owner has made an own goal this time.
 

Pep Guardiola is most unlikely to become the next manager of Chelsea, simply because he is the kind of manager that needs time. Chelsea, or should I say Ambramovich doesn't have time. The fact that the club has had nine managers since 2003 speaks for itself. Instead, Guardiola might be waiting for the chance in Manchester United or Manchester City, where he will have the owners time. 

The Russian curse hits Chelsea sooner or later!

The summer transfer window has hardly closed before we can look forward to the next. Many players are surrounded by rumours sending them to or away from the Premier League in January - Great Dane Football Blog list the most likely to join or leave EPL.

Not any transfer window goes by without linking Yann M'Vila to either Arsenal, Chelsea or Tottenham. The french midfielder from Rennes is eager to leave France and join the Premier League. At the moment, Arsenal seems to be the best club for him as they have sold Alex Song. M'Vila can be the replacement on the defensive midfield.

Ashley Cole is one of the elder player in Chelsea and is probably on his way out of the team. According to The Mirror, Abramovich has said that no player over 30 will be offered more than a one year contract. Ashley Cole's contract expires next season, leaving the January window as the only option for Chelsea to make money on him. It is well known that Cole is a fan of money, which makes PSG an opportunity as the next employee. Furthermore, PSG-manager Carlo Ancelotti has opened the door for the defender saying his is one of the best on his position.

Like M'Vila Falcoa is also linked with a transfer to England, in every transfer window the last couple of years. The Columbian has been rumoured close to Chelsea more times than I can count. However, often there has been nothing in the story. The current economic crisis in Spanish football can send Falcao to Chelsea given Atletico Madrid a much needed £45m. 

2. Nani to Juventus

Several media reports that Nani should be unhappy with his wage at Old Trafford. Juventus is keeping an eye on the Portuguese and looks as the club most likely to buy him. However, Nani has two years left of his contract and might be too expensive for the Italians.

1. Robert Lewandowski to Manchester United

Manchester United has been out for Robert Lewandowski for the last year and especially after his last season in Dortmund. The Polish striker has rejected to sign a new contract at Dortmund, and the club might want to sell him in January in order to make money on him. United seems as the club most likely to become Lewandowski's next employee having brought his former teammate Shinji Kagawa in earlier this year.

A few transfer rumours has been spread this week! Great Dane Football Blog gives you an update!

Fulham is considering the free agent Nigel Reo-Coker (Daily Mail) - Probability: High

Liverpool has offered Agger £15m to stay in the club (Daily Star) - Probability: High

Chelsea is planning to bid £45m for Atletico Madrids Falcao (The Sun) - Probability: Low

Arsenal, Liverpool and both Manchester clubs, are keeping an eye on unhappy Igor Denisov (The Mirror) - probability: High

England has four teams in this year's Champions League. The groups has been drawn and some opponents looks stronger than others - but what can we expect from the English teams?

A fairly easy draw for Arsenal in this year's Champions League. The champions of France will be the first opponent. Even though, Montepellier-coach René Girard belives that his team can win the competition, it should be an easy task for the Gunners. Schalke looks as the hardest opponent in the group, given their routine in international football, but overall Arsenal shall qualify from this stage of the Champions League.

Manchester City was sent out of last year's Champions League after the group stages. This year, they are in what has been named the 'Death group'. Two giants are put in this group and supplemented by two small, but still great European champions - Dortmund and Ajax. City should be able to win against both Ajax and Dortmund; however, the two teams have surprised before in this competition. The battle for the first and second place in this group will be between Real Madrid and Manchester City.

It is hard to tell whether or not Chelsea is in an easy or hard group. Juventus is a first class team and on a good day they can beat everyone. Shaktar Donetsk has shown them selves as one of the best Easteuropean clubs the last couple of years, while FC Nordsjælland is just happy to be in the Champions League. I will be very disappointed with Chelsea if they can't manage to win against the Danes, while it wouldn't surprise me if the lost points against the Italians and the Ukrainians.

Last year Manchester City was one of the most disappointing teams to follow in the Champions League. This year it is time for the Reds to show that they are an international top team, and they should be able to win this group. On paper, Braga, Cluj and Galatasaray doesn't sound terrifying for the English team. As I see it, the Turkish is the best opponent with former Premier League players Milan Baros, Johan Elmander and Emmanuel Eboue.

The Twente striker ended as number two on the Dutch topscorer list, with 25 goals, and was a vital part of the club's season. Newcastle has already lined up De Jong, if Demba Ba should leave the club, but he is also on the short list in Liverpool. However, the Dutch himself is keener on playing for Bayern Munich in Germany.

De Jong will be a pleasant signing for Liverpool, who has been missing a striker since Torres left for Chelsea. He will fit perfect in the Liverpool offensive together with Andy Carroll. Newcastle has in Cisse and Ba two quality strikers, and one of them needs to leave in order to make room for de Jong.

2.    João Moutinho

     Target for: Chelsea

Moutinho has been on the Chelsea short list since Mourinho was managing the team. This summer might be the time for the transfer as he already has admitted that he is ready to leave Porto. 

Chelsea has a history of bringing Portuguese players to the club, and Moutinho will fit into a midfield that needs new and younger players. A transfer could be just around the corner, but some great performances at the EURO can bring the prize at a level that Chelsea will not pay. However, as the player has already announced that he is ready to leave Porto, the club may have to accept any offer.

3.    Javi Martinez 

      Target for: Manchester United and Manchester City

Javi Martinez is on several European top clubs short list, including both Manchester clubs. The Athletic Bilbao midfielder has announced that he is ready to leave the Spanish club, but the question is who will win the transfer race.

Real Madrid is reported to have started negotiations with the player, but this has not been verified. A transfer to Manchester City might not be the right option for the young player, as he will be just another name in the squad. However, in Manchester United the player might have a chance of playing some first team football, as he can turn out to be the future on the midfield for the Red Devils.

4.    Tomáš Pekhart

      Target for: Sunderland

The Czech has a past in Tottenham, where he never made his breakthrough. However, Pekhart might be playing in the Premier League next season. The Nuremberg striker has been short listed by Sunderland since last summer, and a well played EURO might be the tipping point for a transfer to the North English club.

Pekhart might be the giant hitman that the Black Cats need up front after Nicklas Bendtner has left the club and will fit in the ambitious team.

5.    Mario Götze 
      Target for: Arsenal

Earlier this year Mario Götze signed a new contract with Dortmund, to great disappointment for Arsenal. Even so, the German could transfer to the London club this summer. Götze is a profile in Dortmund and will not be cheap to buy, and it is not going to be any easier if he plays a great EURO.

Right now, Rennais’ Yann M’vila is the hottest player for Arsenal, but should a transfer go wrong Mesut Özil will be next on the short list. Arsenal needs a midfielder that can be creative and at the same time has some defensive abilities. Özil can be the one.

What's worth watching this week? 

Week 14

Barcelona - AC Milan

Champions League Quarter Finals

Camp Nou

03-04-12 at 19.45 UTC/GMT + 1

Head-to-head (last 10 matches):

Barcelona: 3 victories / 12 goals

    Draws: 15

 AC Milan: 2 victories / 12 goals

This is the second leg of the Quarter Finals, and with a 0-0 draw in the first match, the game is pretty open. AC Milan succeeded holding Barcelona away from scoring on San Siro, but the question is now, if they can do it again. With Barcelona’s astonishing offensive line and the crowd behind them on Nou Camp, AC Milan is going through some test. However, a goal or two for AC Milan will put the Catalans under pressure. The clash between two of Europe’s most historical teams is going to be worth watching.     

Chelsea FC - Benfica

Champions League Quarter Finals

Stamford Bridge

04-04-12 at 19.45 UTC/GMT + 1

Head-to-head (only one match):

Chelsea FC: 1 victory / 1 goal

     Draws: 0

   Benfica: 0 victories / 0 goals

Another second leg of the UEFA Champions League Quarter Finals. Chelsea won the first leg at Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica with a 1-0 result. It looks like Chelsea is back on track with Roberto De Matteo behind the wheel. However, Benfica have not lost their last four games, and Chelsea’s 1-0 lead may not be enough. A Champions League title will light up an otherwise dark season for Chelsea, and this match will reveal if Chelsea is re-born or if Benfica is too big a mouthful for the South London team.

 Valencia - AZ Alkmaar

Europa League Quarter Finals

Mestalla

05-04-12 at 20.05 UTC/GMT + 1

Head-to-head (only one match):

Valencia: 0 victories / 1 goal

   Draws: 0

 Alkmaar: 1 victory / 2 goals

Dutch football and in particular AZ Alkmaar have become better and better the last couple of years, and the club is now standing with one foot in the Europa League Semifinals. After a surprising 2-1 victory against Valencia at home, the question is if they can keep their lead at Mestalla. Valencia has something to prove for their fans, and with a, on paper, much stronger squad they should be able to win at home.  I’m looking forward to this match, as I see Alkmaar as one of this year big surprises in international football and is looking forward to see if they can go all the way.

Lazio - Napoli

Serie A Round 31

Stadio Olimpico

07-04-12 at 20.00 UTC/GMT + 1

Head-to-head (last 10 matches):

 Lazio: 3 victories / 13 goals

 Draws: 5

Napoli: 2 victories / 10 goals

Napoli can bring themselves on a shared third place in Serie A, if they can win against number three, Lazio. Both Napoli and Lazio have some talented attackers in form of Édison Carvani and Miroslav Klose, and this match could well end up in a goal show. Napoli has not won once in the last three rounds in Serie A and is hungry for a victory, while Lazio’s last few games has been a rollercoaster with good and bad results. Napoli is going in to a hard match against Lazio at Stadio Olimpico, and it is well worth watching, which team will end up with the victory.

Arsenal - Manchester City

 Premier League Round 32

Emirates Stadium

08-04-2012 at 16.00 UTC/GMT + 1

Head-to-head (last 10 matches):

        Arsenal: 3 victories / 10 goals

          Draws: 2

Manchester City: 5 victories / 13 goals 

Three points are vital for both Arsenal and Manchester City is the Premier League match. Arsenal can put some distance to Tottenham (given Tottenham looses), while Manchester City will be able to keep up their chase of the Manchester United. The last two clashed between the teams has been won by Manchester City, and Arsenal will be keen on winning, the last meeting in this season. The match will also feature a meeting between the top scorer in the league, Robin Van Persie with 26 goals, and the second best goalkeeper in this season, Joe Hart with 13 clean sheets.  This match is more than any match worth watching!

Follow up: Andreas Bruhn Christensen - 5 shoot shootout

In relation to last weeks talent profile, Andreas Bruhn Christensen answers 5 questions from the twelve yard spot.

Who is your biggest idol?

I have two, and they are Xavi (Barcelona) and Frank Lampard (Chelsea). Xavi has a view of the game and is an intelligent football player who often chooses the right solutions, while Frank Lampard is a scoring midfielder. He scores goals almost when he wants. I would not complain if I could incorporate some of that into my play. 

What is your greatest experience as a football player?The trial in Liverpool and my debut for the Danish national team were some great experiences. It is a dream to represent your country. It was a lovely match, and I played well; all together it was a great experience.
 

Who is the hardest opponent you have ever played against?We met Spain in Copa del Atlantico. They had three midfielders, which were amazing to play against.

Where is Andreas Bruhn in 10 years?I should be in Germany, Holland or England by then. That is what I hope for.
 

Which team would you most like to play for?
If I was to play in Germany would I like to play for Bayern Munich or Borrusia Dortmund. However, playing for Real Madrid in Spain, would be the top of everything.

Pressure is on the Chelsea manager Andrés Villas-Boas as the club has had the worst set of results for more than 10 years and is in danger of not playing in Champions League for the first time since the 2002-2003 season. Rafael Benitez stands by to take over according to the media - But should AVB have more time?

Roman Abramovich bought Andrés Villas-Boas for the amount of £13.3 million last summer, making him not only the most expensive manager in the PL but also the youngest (34). Being compared to José Mourinho, the manager has been under pressure almost since his first match.

Villas-Boas has presented a three year plan to change the team and the club structure; however, a club like Chelsea demands results right from the start. To understand what Villas-Boas is up against, we should take a look at the former managers during the Abramovich ownership.

Claudio Ranieri 2000-2004

Win ratio:53.3 per cent

Notable signings: Wayne Bridge, Joe Cole,

                  Claude Makelele

Silverware: No Silverware, but guided Chelsea to

            second in the league (highest in 49

            seasons)

José Mourinho 2004-2007

 Win ratio: 67.6 per cent

 Notable signings: Didier Drogba, Paulo Ferreria, 

                   Ricardo Carvalho, Arjen Robben,

                   Michael Essien

 Silverware: 2 x Premier League, 2 x FA Cup, 

             2 x Carling Cup, Community Shield

 

 

 

 

 

 Avram Grant 2007-2008

 Win ratio: 66.7 per cent

 Notable signings: Nicholas Anelka, Branislav

                   Ivanovic

 Silverware: No silverware, but the first manager

             to bring Chelsea to a Champions

             League final

 

               

 Luiz Felipe Scolari 2008-2009

 Win ratio: 55.6 per cent 

 Notable signings: Jose Bosingwa, Deco 

 Silverware: No Silverware

  Guus Hiddink 2009

  Win ratio: 72.7 per cent

  Notable signings: None

  Silverware: FA Cup

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Carlo Ancelotti 2009-2011

Win ratio: 62.2 per cent

Notable signings: Ramires, Ross Turnbull,

                  Yuri Zhirkov, David Luiz, 

                  Daniel Sturridge, Fernando

                  Torres

Silverware: Community Shield, FA Cup, Premier League

Taken from The Telegraph 

The Chelsea-fans, as well as, club owner Roman Abramovich have been used to winning or at least being in the top since he bought the club. However, it seems as the team has lost its “magic” since Mourinho left Chelsea, and the hiring of AVB could be seen on as an attempt to bring it back. As mentioned before, Villas-Boas has come up with a three year plan to change not only the team but also the structure of the club.This takes time and the manager insists that he has Abramovich’s back up. Let us take a closer look at one of the most important but also hardest parts the plan.

First of all AVB is trying to revolutionise an ageing team.  Many of the players have been in Chelsea for a couple of years now and are “over the hill” – the team simply needs new and younger players. This is something the manager has tried to bring to the club by the signings of Juan Mata, Oriel Romeu and Romelo Lukaku. The hard part is to clear out in the squad – to get rid of some of the old boys – as Drogba, Florent Malauda, Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard. Villas-Boas have more than once put the older, more experienced players on the bench, given place to the young talents in the starting eleven. This has given him problems as the players who have been in the club for several years have stood up against him. At the same time are the fans furious when a club icon as Frank Lampard is being held on the bench. To make things worse for the manager have he often trusted  in his Portuguese players as Meireles, Bosingwa and David Luiz who more than often has failed. AVB himself said on the 16th of February that he do not need the support of his players as long as he has the support from Abramovich. 


Personally, I do not believe it is enough for Chelsea to get rid of the “old boys”. They need to sell the players that do not have an impact on the team – players as the harmless attacker Fernando Torres or Michael Essien – in order to bring some new faces to the squad. Porto’s attacker Hulk has already been mentioned as a new striker for the blues.


Time might be running out for Andrés Villas-Boas. If he does not get the results needed for keeping Chelsea in - or just outside - the top of Premier League in this season. However, Chelsea fans and Abramovich should open their eyes and see that AVB is not the “special one”. Perhaps not even the “next special one”. As long as the “Ghost of Mourinho “ is haunting at Stamford Bridge, Villas-Boas will not have the time and space to rebuild a new and younger Chelsea team. The question is can Rafael Benitez do it better?