Straight Outta Cobham: The Athletic FC’s Chelsea show

The wait for an Old Trafford win goes on...

Matt Davies-Adams has got two of The Athletic's finest - Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher - alongside him to look back on the frustrating 1-1 draw with Manchester United.

We dissect the potential imbalance in Maresca's system, ponder the back line conundrum - and wonder whether Chelsea will ever score from a set piece again...

Then it's all eyes on Thursday night - with Armenian outfit Noah in town on matchday three of the Europa Conference League. Who needs minutes most? Who's got to take their chance? And who are Noah?!

Meanwhile, Chelsea Women continued their blistering start to the season as they made it a perfect five wins from five for Sonia Bompastor's side in the WSL after their 5-0 thrashing of Everton at Goodison Park.

We'll be back on Friday to reflect on the visit of Noah and preview Sunday's mouthwatering showdown with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Luke Bosher and Simon Johnson

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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11 changes too many...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey with him to look back on the disappointing 2-0 cup exit at the hands of Newcastle on Wednesday night. We ponder the wisdom of the decision to field an entirely changed XI - and whether we should be worried about the disparity in quality between the 'A' and 'B' teams.

Now to see whether the changes were worth it - as Chelsea prepare for a trip to face Ruud van Nistelrooy's Manchester United. The Athletic's Carl Anka is on hand to help us gauge the mood around Old Trafford following the departure of Erik ten Hag as Enzo Maresca's side look to end a torrid run of form which has seen them fail to win on the road at United since 2013!!

There's a round up of the Blues news elsewhere - with CFCW back in action after the international break with a trip to Everton on Sunday night.

And of course - we finish with a quiz with a Manchester United flavour...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on events at Old Trafford and preview the midweek visit of Armenian outfit Noah in the Conference League.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey, Luke Bosher & Carl Anka

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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The Magpies double-header is off to a good start...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher alongside him to look back on Sunday afternoon's 2-1 victory over Newcastle in the Premier League. We eulogise over *that* Palmer pass, discuss the return of Reece James amid questions over his 'leadership' credentials - and wonder what this line-up tells us about Enzo's roll in midfield...

There's not long to wait until the next match-up with Eddie Howe's men - off to St James' Park on Wednesday night in the last 16 of the Carabao Cup. We pick our starting XI's for that game and ponder the importance of this competition.

We'll be back on Thursday to look back on that cup tie AND look ahead of Sunday's trip to Old Trafford to take on a beleaguered Manchester United (new manager bounce, anyone?! Sigh)

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey & Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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They're quite good at this whole Conference League thing...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Jessy Parker Humphreys and Luke Bosher to look back on the hugely comfortable 4-1 win over Panathinaikos over in Athens which leaves Chelsea with three wins from three in Europe. Liam Twomey was at the match for The Athletic and sends his musings. Will anyone be enough to stop Enzo Maresca's side from going all the way and winning the competition?

It's back to the bread and butter of the Premier League on Sunday afternoon as the Blues host Newcastle at Stamford Bridge. There's a look ahead to that game - plus a focus on the fortunes of CFCW so far this season AND a first-time quiz match up as Jessy and Luke go head-to-head in a high-quality contest...

We'll be back on Monday to recount the Premier League clash with the Magpies AND look ahead to Wednesday's trip to St James' Park for the second dose of Newcastle in the Carabao Cup.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Jessy Parker Humphreys and Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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The winless streak against Liverpool stretches to 10...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher with him to look back on Sunday afternoon's 2-1 defeat at Anfield. We talk Reece's return, defensive fragility and the Neto v Sancho selection conundrum - plus a chance to hear from Enzo Maresca in conversation with Simon after the game.

The attention turns to Thursday night's Conference League jaunt to Athens to take on Panathinaikos.

Plus, Chelsea Women continue their winning start to the season with a 5-2 rout of Spurs - with a simply stunning goal from Johanna Rytting Kaneryd which left some of us choking at the breakfast table!

We'll be back on Friday to review the Blues' trip to Greece and look ahead to Sunday's Premier League clash with Newcastle.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Simon Johnson & Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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It's about to get real...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him as we get back into the swing of domestic matters.

We round up all the news from across the international break - including plenty of honours, national team fortunes and the return of Thomas Tuchel...

Then it's all eyes on the trip to Anfield! The Athletic's Liverpool correspondent James Pearce stops by to give us an insight into Arne Slot's side ahead of Sunday's game - whilst we take a closer look at the key selection issues going into the clash.

There's a round up of CFCW's recent fortunes - and a quiz!

We'll be with you again on Monday to look back on the visit to Anfield (if Producer Lucy returns from Miami!) and preview Thursday's trip to Panathinaikos.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey & Simon Johnson

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Those trees are awfully tricky...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey to look back on Sunday's spicy 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest. So - was it a point gained or two dropped given the circumstances? And what's wrong with Enzo Fernández?

Champions League football is back at Stamford Bridge! Chelsea Women get their campaign underway on Tuesday night when they take on Real Madrid. Jessy Parker Humphrey's swings by to preview that game and reflect on their early season fortunes under Sonia Bompastor.

We'll be back after the international break to round up all the latest Blues news while we've been away AND look ahead to the huge trip to Anfield to take on Liverpool.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Simon Johnson, Liam Twomey & Jessy Parker-Humphreys

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Thursday night under the lights...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher in tow to look back on the 4-2 victory over Gent in Matchday 1 of the Conference League at Stamford Bridge.

Then - it's all eyes on the MDA Derby with Nottingham Forest in town on Sunday afternoon!

Plus, CFCW may have the weekend off after the botched scheduling drama - BUT congratulations are in order for Millie Bright...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on Sunday's visit of Forest before pausing for the second international break of the season.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Simon Johnson & Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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It's Cole's world and we're all just living in it...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher alongside him to go full fanboy after a truly remarkable showing from Cole Palmer in the crazy 4-2 victory over Brighton on Saturday afternoon.

After revelling in that glory it's all eyes on Thursday night's first UEFA Conference League 'League Stage' match - with Belgian side Gent in town. Listener Stephane - who's got a foot in both camps - give us an insight into what Chelsea can expect from the visitors.

Plus, CFCW continued their perfect start to the season with a whopping 7-0 win at Crystal Palace. Jessy Parker Humphrey's drops in to give us the lowdown - and the latest on some scheduling shenanigans...

We'll be back on Friday to reflect on the Blues' Conference League exploits the night before - and look ahead to Sunday's visit of Nottingham Forest!

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Luke Bosher, Simon Johnson, Liam Twomey & Jessy Parker Humphreys

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Not a bad whole new starting XI...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey with him for your second weekly dose of Chelsea chat.

The Blues cruised into the fourth round of the League Cup following their 5-0 victory over League Two Barrow... we look back on the game and hear from Pedro Neto in conversation with our very own Simon Johnson, who scored his first goal for the club.

Then it's all eyes on Saturday's game against unbeaten Brighton at Stamford Bridge. We weigh up the chances of Christopher Nkunku starting - and rate the overall prospects against Fabian Hürzeler's side.

There's a word on CFCW's second Friday night game in succession as they prepare to face newly promoted Crystal Palace, plus all the other Blues news AND the latest quiz match up between Bosher and Twomey...

We'll be back on Monday to round up the visit of the Seagulls - and look ahead to the start of the Europa Conference League proper - with Belgian outfit Gent in town on Thursday night.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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10 goals in 12 London derbies already?

Matt Davies-Adams has got two of The Athletic's finest - Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey - alongside him to look back on the impressive 3-0 win over West Ham at London Stadium on Saturday.

We heap praise on Nicholas Jackson and Moisés Caicedo for their stellar performances - hear from Tosin in the mixed zone with Simon - and reflect on the presence of Todd Boehly AND Behdad Eghbali in the posh seats...

Plus, there were a big three points to kick off their WSL campaign and title defence for Sonia Bompastor's CFCW - 1-0 winners against Aston Villa on Friday night.

We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on the League Cup third round tie against Barrow AND look ahead to Saturday's visit of Brighton.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey & Simon Johnson

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva (who apologises for the late publication of the podcast due to flight chaos on the way back from New York!)

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Matt Davies Adams is back with Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him to assess a relatively relaxing week by recent Chelsea standards.  

We talk changes up top for the game against West Ham, who would get your nod between Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku?

And a listener asks who’s the right choice for right back with both Malo Gusto and Reece James out injured? 

Plus, who'll triumph in the latest quiz?!

We'll be back next Thursday to reflect on the trip to the London stadium - and look ahead to hosting Brighton at the Bridge.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey & Simon Johnson

PRODUCER: Steve Hankey

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Has anyone got a spare yellow card?

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey - to look back on the scrappy 1-0 win at Bournemouth on Saturday night.

We talk big stops from Robert Sánchez, a 45 minute debut to remember for Jadon Sancho - love for Renato Veiga and eye catching headlines...

Then, it's all eyes on the WSL as the Sonia Bompastor era officially begins on Friday evening. We draft in our friend Jessy Parker Humphreys to preview the opening day clash against Aston Villa - and hopes for the upcoming season.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to Saturday's visit to West Ham - and take another look at Friday night's WSL opener against Villa.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Luke Bosher, Liam Twomey & Jessy Parker Humphreys

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Fun fact: it's never, ever, ever, EVER dull at Chelsea Football Club.

Matt Davies Adams is back with Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him to reflect on all the latest Blues news we've missed during the international break. Spoiler alert... quite a lot has happened!

We talk ownership crisis and stadium moves - before turning our attention to Saturday night's visit to Bournemouth.

Plus, who'll triumph in the latest quiz?!

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the trip to the seaside - and look ahead to the start of the WSL season!

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey & Simon Johnson

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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The streak is over...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield in tow to reflect on the 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge. Simon Johnson was in place and sent us his match report - plus we speculate about the role that Christopher Nkunku will have in this team going forward.

There's a chance to round up some of the deadline day antics we missed on Friday - including the late arrival of Jadon Sancho and departure of Raheem Sterling and Trevoh Chalobah...

Plus - pack your bags for Kazakhstan! We're all going on a Conference League adventure!

We're taking our own international break - but we'll be back on Thursday 12th September to look ahead to the trip to Bournemouth and round up any of the Blues news we might have missed.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Dom Fifield & Liam Twomey

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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They made very hard work of it...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Simon Johnson and Dom Fifield to look back on their slightly perilous progress in the Conference League despite the 2-1 defeat by Servette out in Geneva. Liam Twomey was there and sent us an on the whistle report.

Our slightly dicey time of recording - Friday morning - means there may have been *plenty* of Deadline Day fun in the meantime - BUT we discuss the latest ins and outs anyway!

Then - it's all eyes on the Dom Derby as we preview the visit of Crystal Palace to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.

Plus - a round up of the latest Blues news elsewhere and an alternative quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on events against the Eagles ahead of the first international break of the season.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Simon Johnson, Dom Fifield & Liam Twomey

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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That's one way to end the Molineux hoodoo!

It's a jubilant Bank Holiday pod record as Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher to look back on the 6-2 thrashing of Wolverhampton Wanderers.

We salute Noni and his Instagram antics, laud goal and assist machine Cole Palmer - and wonder whether the signs are there that this team could be gelling after a long and tumultuous summer.

There's the latest transfer gossip with less than a week to go until the window *slams* shut - including the latest on Armando Broja's departure - and rumours of an approach for Jadon Sancho?!

The Blues are back in action on Thursday night as they head out to Switzerland to take on Servette - with a two-goal advantage in their UEFA Conference League play-off tie.

Plus - CFCW continued their winning start under Sonia Bompastor with a 1-0 win over Arsenal Stateside.

We'll be back on Friday to hopefully report on a smooth-sailing victory in Geneva AND a serene transfer deadline day...

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Luke Bosher & Liam Twomey

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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A win's a win...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher alongside him as we reflect on the first competitive victory of the Enzo Maresca reign in their 2-0 win over Servette on Thursday night.

We take a closer look at some of the explosive comments in Enzo's pre-match press conference regarding the size of the squad and futures of Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell. Simon was in the room to witness the spiciness.

Then - it's all eyes on Sunday afternoon's trip to Wolves - a place that has NOT been a happy hunting ground for the Blues in recent years. The Athletic's Wolves expert Steve Madeley joins us to shine the spotlight on Gary O'Neil's side.

Oh - and it wouldn't be a Thursday (or Friday!) pod without a quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the trip to Molineux and look ahead to the Conference League second leg out in Geneva.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Simon Johnson, Luke Bosher & Steve Madeley

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Well... it could have been worse?!

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson to look back on the 2-0 opening day defeat by Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.

We try and take the positives - including the performance of Romeo Lavia, discuss the Enzo Fernández conundrum after he was handed the armband - and shine the spotlight on the debutants thrown on to try and make their mark.

Build-up to the game was somewhat overshadowed by a bombshell statement released by Raheem Sterling's camp after he was left out of the matchday squad. We ponder what the wider ramifications could be going forward....

Then, it's all eyes on Thursday night - as the Blues begin their voyage to officially 'win it all' in their first appearance in the UEFA Conference League.

We'll be back on Friday to reflect on the play-off first leg against Servette - and look ahead to the tricky trip to Molineux!

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Here we go again!

Matt Davies-Adams has got two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey alongside him to build-up to the first game of the 2024-25 Premier League season.

We begin with the latest on the Conor Gallagher/ João Félix saga - and the news that Mauricio Pochettino is in line to become the new USMNT boss!

Then it's onto some brief predictions for the campaign ahead - before we turn out attention to Sunday's visitors Manchester City with the help of City correspondent Sam Lee.

Plus - after a big win in pre-season, can Liam carry that confidence into the first quiz of the new campaign?

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the opening day shenanigans and look forward to midweek UEFA Conference League fun...

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Luke Bosher, Liam Twomey & Sam Lee

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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It's nearly here...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher alongside him as the final preparations for the 2024-25 Premier League season begin.

We start with the latest transfer news - including the surprise signing of Pedro Neto and potential shock return of João Félix - which could have a big knock on effect for Conor Gallagher's departure...

There are brief reflections from Sunday's 1-1 draw against Inter Milan in the final pre-season fixture of the summer.

Then - we've got the unenviable task of trying to audit the entire extraordinarily large squad.

Plus - your questions and thoughts as Enzo Maresca's side prepare to get their campaign underway!

We'll be back on Thursday with comprehensive build-up to Sunday's Premier League opener against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey & Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Have Chelsea ever heard of a quiet week?

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Blues expert Liam Twomey alongside him to reflect on another chaotic week for CFC.

We begin with the Conference League draw - with Enzo Maresca's side set to face Braga or Servette in their play-off tie towards the end of the month.

Then - the Conor Gallagher transfer chaos continues - with a move to Atlético de Madrid potentially hanging in the balance... We touch base with the latest developments and the unsavouriness that could follow if the deal doesn't go through.

There's a look at the latest pre-season exploits over in the USA - including the humbling at the hands of Manchester City which followed signs of improvement against Club América.

We'll be back on Monday to begin the build-up to the 2024-25 season in earnest!

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey & Adam Crafton

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Did you miss us?!

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher to recap all the latest in the world of CFC after almost two months away...

Plus, Simon Johnson drops by from Stateside to bring us up to speed with the pre-season tour - which hasn't *exactly* gone to plan so far results wise against Wrexham and Celtic.

Plus - a chance to hear from summer signing Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall about life under Enzo Maresca and why when the Blues came knocking there was no turning them down!

There's an update on the fallout from the Enzo Fernandez incident, transfer ins and outs (including a certain Napoli striker!), all change at the academy and a big departure for CFCW.

We'll be back next week with the latest from pre-season and any other Blues news which develops.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey, Luke Bosher & Simon Johnson

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Hello... again...

A new Chelsea manager calls for yet another emergency podcast - which rather conveniently we were able to record at our end of season knees up!

Matt Davies-Adams has got *literally* the whole gang alongside him to bring you reaction to the appointment of Enzo Maresca as the new Blues boss.

So, what kind of manager is he? The Athletic's Leicester reporter Rob Tanner stops by to give us the lowdown on his time with the Foxes - and a word of warning if the owners are expecting a 'yes man'...

Plus - the worst kept secret in women's football is finally out there - following the appointment of Sonia Bompastor as the new CFCW boss! Jessy Parker Humphreys is on hand to give us a bit of an insight into what Chelsea fans can expect from Emma Hayes' successor.

Now that really is it until the start of the new season! No! More! Bonus! Pods! Or! Crazy! Chelsea! Announcements! (We hope!)

Have a lovely, restful summer and we'll see you in August...

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Simon Johnson, Luke Bosher, Liam Twomey, Dom Fifield, Rob Tanner & Jessy Parker Humphreys

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Our summer break lasted a whole 36 hours...

Matt Davies-Adams parachutes in The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey for an emergency pod following the departure of manager Mauricio Pochettino by mutual consent.

We bring you the inside story of how events transpired and led to the parting of ways - while taking your reaction and questions.

Why now? Who's in the frame to take over? What does it mean for the future of the club and players going forward?

It's just another day in the life of Chelsea Football Club.

We'll see you again... soon?!

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Simon Johnson & Liam Twomey

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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And just like that, another rollercoaster, topsy turvy season is over...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey, Simon Johnson, Dom Fifield, Jessy Parker Humphreys AND Luke Bosher on his holidays to look back on another remarkable campaign at Chelsea Football Club.

We begin with events at an emotional Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon as the club said goodbye to Thiago Silva AND the 2023-24 season with a 2-1 win over Bournemouth to secure 6th spot and European football.

Then up to Old Trafford, and CFCW heroics as Emma Hayes signed off in style after overseeing a fifth straight WSL title following their 6-0 demolition of Manchester United.

There's reflections on the wider season as a whole and what the future could hold for the likes of Mauricio Pochettino and Conor Gallagher - before our customary end of season quiz with a difference...

We'll be back ~rejuvenated~ ahead of the 2024-25 campaign a little later in the summer - unless an emergency podcast is required in the meantime!

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey, Simon Johnson, Dom Fifield & Jessy Parker Humphreys

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Four wins a row to put Chelsea in pole position for a European spot?!

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's CFC experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to look back on the 2-1 victory at Brighton which moved the Blues up to sixth in the Premier League table.

Elsewhere there was a narrow but huge victory for CFCW - beating Tottenham 1-0 at Brisbane Road to go into the last day of the season top of the WSL table on goal difference! Jessy Parker Humphrey's sends us their thoughts.

And just like that we've reached the last game of the season - with the Cherries in town on Sunday afternoon as Mauricio Pochettino's men look to close out the 2023-24 season on a high...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the games against Bournemouth and Manchester United AND round up another crazy season in the life of Chelsea Football Club.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Simon Johnson & Liam Twomey

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Just imagine if we hadn't had all those injuries...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey - to revel in Saturday's 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.

We lavish yet more praise on Cole Palmer, herald the return and impact of Reece James - and question where this leaves Chelsea's European hopes going into the final week of the season.

There's then a look ahead to Wednesday night's trip to Brighton - and a huge clash in the WSL as CFCW face Tottenham in their penultimate game of the season.

We'll be back on Thursday for our penultimate podcast of the season - reflecting on events at Brighton and Brisbane Road - AND looking ahead to Sunday's visit of Bournemouth.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey & Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Keep, sell or loan out?

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Dom Fifield and Luke Bosher to take a deep dive into the Chelsea squad as we discuss the future of the current crop of players and their places at Stamford Bridge or elsewhere going forward.

It's the small matter of the MDA derby on Saturday teatime as Mauricio Pochettino's side make the trip to Nottingham to face Forest! We look ahead to that one and ponder the motivation for both sides with Europe and Premier League safety potentially on the line.

Then - Dom takes matters into his own hands with the quiz - and the shoe is on the other foot as Matt becomes a contestant...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the trip to the City Ground - and look ahead to the penultimate game of the season at Brighton.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Dom Fifield & Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Goals, goals, goals and more goals!

Matt Davies-Adams has The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to reflect on a fantastic Sunday of action for CFC & CFCW.

We begin with a round up of the 5-0 thrashing of West Ham at Stamford Bridge - as Chalobah and Gallagher shone once more, Cucurella got his fans singing and European football suddenly started to look like a very real possibility...

Then, remarkable scenes at Kingsmeadow for Emma Hayes' last home game in charge as they put EIGHT past Bristol City to take advantage of Man City's defeat by Arsenal earlier in the day. Jessy Parker Humphrey's captures the mood on a bonkers day in the WSL title race.

We'll be back on Wednesday to look ahead to Saturday's trip to the City Ground in the MDA derby (coming a day early because a certain producer is off to Paris to see Taylor Swift...)

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Simon Johnson & Liam Twomey

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Can we play you every week?

Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Dom Fifield in tow to look back on the thoroughly satisfying 2-0 win over Tottenham at Stamford Bridge ft a Liam voicenote and some singing...

We round up the performance and give some love to Chalobah, Gallagher and Cucurella - before taking a closer look at the rather pointed post-match comments from Pochettino.

Next up - West Ham come west in the final London derby of the season - we preview that game before reflecting on the shock defeat for Chelsea Women at Liverpool which all but ends their hopes of a fifth consecutive WSL title.

And finally - a quiz to impress the lovely lady or man in your life this weekend...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on Sunday's latest London derby - and see whether CFCW have got back on track against Bristol City.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Dom Fifield & Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Refereeing and VAR controversy, you say? How original...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him to look back on Saturday night's dramatic 2-2 draw with Aston Villa.

But we begin with our tributes to the great Thiago Silva - who's announced he'll be leaving the club at the end of the season after four hugely influential years in West London.

Then there's the small matter of a London/ Pochettino derby to look forward to on Thursday evening - with Tottenham making the short trip to SW6.

Plus, our friend JPH drops by to reflect on the heartbreaking and highly controversial defeat by Barcelona at a sold out Stamford Bridge.

We'll be back on Friday to bring you reaction to the visit of Spurs AND look ahead to Sunday's latest London derby against West Ham.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey, Simon Johnson & Jessy Parker Humphreys

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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A horrible, horrible, horrible night...

Two of The Athletic's finest - Dom Fifield and Simon Johnson - are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the hugely demoralising 5-0 thrashing by Arsenal at the Emirates on Tuesday night.

Next up - another tricky away trip - this time to Villa Park to take on Unai Emery's Champions League chasing Aston Villa.

There's some light at the end of the tunnel as Chelsea Women welcome Barcelona to Stamford Bridge with a slender 1-0 lead going into their semi-final second leg.

Plus hot garden waste chat, Shaggy - and a quiz!

We'll be back on Monday where we'll reflect on the trip to Aston Villa and hopefully be toasting a glorious UWCL victory for CFCW.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Simon Johnson & Dom Fifield

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

***

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They really, really, really, really, really don't like winning at Wembley...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher along for the ride as we reflect on the latest cup disappointment following the narrow 1-0 defeat by Man City on Saturday. There's a mega full-time voice note from Liam and Simon Johnson live from the ground - before our more considered reflections and thoughts on where the Blues managed to fall just short once again...

There's no time to dwell with a big trip to Arsenal on Tuesday night. We preview that game and ponder how Mauricio Pochettino will be able to get a tune out of the squad with a run of tricky fixtures to come before the end of this topsy turvy campaign.

We repeat - thank goodness for CFCW! Jessy Parker Humphrey's sends us a dispatch after their glorious 1-0 UWCL semi-final first leg victory out in Barcelona.

We'll be back on Thursday to look back on events at the Emirates and look ahead to the women's HUGE Champions League second leg at the Bridge and the trip to Villa Park in the Premier League.

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Luke Bosher & Liam Twomey

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Double trouble semi-final Saturday...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson to tease ahead to Saturday evening's FA Cup semi-final showdown with Manchester City at Wembley.

We ponder whether now's the perfect time to play Pep's side after their dramatic UCL defeat by Real Madrid, how we see the team lining up - and the realistic chances of progressing to another final.

There's also a potentially season defining semi-final for CFCW to look forward to - heading out to Barcelona on Saturday afternoon in the first leg of their Champions League tie. The Athletic's women's football writer Charlotte Harpur joins us to look back on the important 3-0 win over Aston Villa in the WSL on Wednesday night and how that sets things up for this unenviably tricky tie against the Spanish giants.

There's our obligatory Thursday quiz - and a bonus bit of audio as we hear a snippet from Simon's interview with Chelsea loanee Alex Matos - currently plying his trade at Huddersfield and relishing the challenge of keeping Town in the Championship amid a feisty relegation battle.

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the weekend's SF showdowns AND look ahead to Tuesday night's trip to The Emirates...

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey & Simon Johnson

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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He's quite good at football, isn't he?

Matt Davies-Adams has got two of The Athletic's finest - Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher - alongside him to look back on Monday night's rout of Everton at Stamford Bridge in yet another Cole Palmer masterclass... which threatened to be overshadowed by hijinx of the penalty variety!

Away from the game there was more chaos off the pitch as the club's latest financial accounts caused more than a few eyebrows to be raised... we try and get to the bottom of what it all means for the now and the future...

It was a weekend to forget for CFCW and Emma Hayes - knocked out of the FA Cup after defeat by Manchester United leading to questions over the end of Emma Hayes' time at the helm. We check in with the Full Time Europe gang to get a better understanding of the mood around the team at the moment.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to Saturday's FA Cup semi-final at Wembley against Manchester City - and the small matter of a Champions League semi-final first leg against Barcelona!

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey, Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Money, money, money...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to round up the latest Blues news and look ahead to Monday night's visit of Everton.

We start with a deep dive into Liam's latest piece looking at the finer details of the £1 billion outlay of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital over the last three transfer windows. Was anyone worth the money that was paid for them?!

There's an update on the acquisition of Stoll Mansions before taking a closer look at the Toffees showdown - which is *surely* must win if there's to be any hope of snatching a European spot.

Plus, CFCW are back in action after the international break - travelling to Manchester to take on United in the semi-final of the FA Cup.

We'll be back at the slightly later time of Tuesday to mop up all the fallout from the visit of Everton on Monday evening!

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Dom Fifield, Liam Twomey

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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Chelsea just don't want nice things, do they?

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Luke Bosher and Dom Fifield with a sense of serious déjà vu as the Blues conspired to draw 2-2 with yet another relegation threatened side on a sorry Sunday in Sheffield.

We reflect on the result with the help of a full-time match report from Liam Twomey - and ponder whether it's an irretrievable situation for Mauricio Pochettino irrespective of potential FA Cup success or where they finish in the table this season.

We'll be back with you on Thursday to look ahead to Monday night's visit of Everton - what could possibly go wrong!

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Dom Fifield, Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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100:39... have you recovered yet, Blues fans?!

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey - to try and recap the utterly bonkers last-gasp 4-3 victory over Manchester United.

Next up - Chelsea make the trip to Bramall Lane to take on relegation fodder Sheffield United... so will Thursday night really prove to be a turning point?!!

The last thing Liam and Luke needed after the drama of the night before was an MDA quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on what's surely a must win game for Poch and co!

HOST: Matt Davies-Adams

WITH: Liam Twomey, Luke Bosher

PRODUCER: Lucy Oliva

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We wish this weekend's results were an April Fools...

Simon Johnson and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies Adams to look back on the pitiful 2-2 draw with 10-man Burnley at Stamford Bridge.

Mason Mount and Manchester United are in town on Thursday evening in a battle of two clubs who are pining for former glories... we look ahead to that one and ponder what kind of reception the Cobham kid will get upon his return.

The weekend just kept getting worse - with CFCW beaten in extra time by Arsenal in the final of the Conti Cup. Jessy Parker Humphreys was there and sent us their thoughts on the final whistle.

We'll be back on Friday to reflect on the visit of Manchester United - and to preview Sunday evening's trip to Sheffield United.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Good riddance, international break...

Matt Davies Adams has got Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey in tow to look ahead to a busy weekend of action for Chelsea Football Club.

We begin with your questions - including the fallout from the FAB statement, the always looming threat of PSR - and whether progress has indeed been made under Pochettino.

Then attention turns to the return of the Premier League - with Burnley in town on Saturday afternoon.

Plus it's a huge weekend for quadruple chasing CFCW - facing familiar foes Arsenal in Sunday's League Cup final at Molineux.

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the visit of Burnley, the Conti Cup final AND the midweek visit of Manchester United in the Premier League...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Is just one normal, straightforward victory too much to ask for?

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson to look back on the mayhem of the 4-2 FA Cup quarterfinal victory over Leicester at Stamford Bridge.

We talk an afternoon to forget for Raheem Sterling, yet more Palmer brilliance and the unseriousness of this team.

Plus, Jessy Parker Humphreys is with us to reflect on the potentially title-deciding victory over Arsenal on Friday night - and the fallout from some of the eye-raising comments made by Emma Hayes...

We're taking a short international break of our own but will be back to preview the visit of all but relegated Burnley - who come to Stamford Bridge on the 30th of March!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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To Wembley or not to Wembley?

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher in tow to preview Sunday afternoon's FA Cup quarterfinal tie with Leicester at Stamford Bridge.

There's a huge Friday night in store for Chelsea Women - hosting Arsenal at Kingsmeadow in a match that could have major ramifications on the title race.

Plus - who'll triumph in the latest Johnson v Bosher quiz battle?

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the Leicester cup tie AND that huge WSL clash for CFCW.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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A five goal thriller under the lights, you say?

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield to look back on the 3-2 victory over Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge.

There's praise for Nicholas Jackson, an analysis of the constant chaos around Chelsea's defending - and the obligatory love after yet another man of the match performance from Cole Palmer.

Plus, our friend Jessy Parker Humphrey's swings by to tell us about a monumental few days for the women's team after progress in the League and FA Cup ahead of a tantalising meeting with Arsenal to come in the WSL...

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to that game AND the visit of Leicester City in the quarterfinals of the FA Cup.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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We asked for your questions and delivered suitably depressing answers...

Matt Davies-Adams has got two of The Athletic's finest - Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey - alongside him for your second dose of Chelsea chatter.

With no midweek game to look back on we open the mailbag - including the future of Pochettino, the root of the cause of the problems - and whether the tactical plan is working.

Then we preview Monday night's visit of Newcastle to Stamford Bridge in the Premier League.

There's reflections on the news that Sam Kerr has been charged with the alleged racially aggravated harassment of a police officer - and a look ahead to their involvement in the League and FA Cup.

And of course - an obligatory quiz!

We'll be back at the later time of Tuesday to reflect on the match against the Magpies - and hopefully news of progress in both cups for CFCW!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Another doom and gloom Monday...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher alongside him to reflect on the 2-2 draw at Brentford - which has led to plenty of questions about the future of Mauricio Pochettino.

Liam Twomey brings us the story of the game on the full-time whistle before we poll your thoughts to gauge the mood around the manager, state of the performance against the Bees and whether the current feeling around the club has turned for good.

We repeat (again), THANK GOD for CFCW - who cruised to a 4-0 win at Leicester to get their title charge back on track.

We'll be back on Thursday to preview Monday night's match against Newcastle at Stamford Bridge.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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You can't beat the feeling of a late winner...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Dom Fifield and Luke Bosher to look back on the 3-2 FA Cup win over Leeds United to set up a quarterfinal showdown with Leicester City.

There's a mega voicenote from Matt and Simon Johnson at the Bridge just after the final whistle - before we talk through the importance of the result and the importance of this competition for the rest of the season...

Then, there's a preview of Saturday afternoon's trip to the Gtech to face a Brentford side who's form and defensive frailties *should* give Chelsea hope of a positive result just down the road in West London.

Plus, shots are fired in the quiz as the two foes go head-to-head...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on events in TW8!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Sixth time unlucky...

Matt Davies-Adams, Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are in place to reflect on another devastating Wembley defeat following the 1-0 extra time League Cup loss at the hands of Liverpool.

There's on the whistle reaction from the gang inside the stadium, before more considered reflections and your thoughts on where it all went wrong for Chelsea and what this means going forward.

No time to feel sorry for themselves - with another season defining game against Leeds in the FA Cup to look ahead to on Wednesday night.

We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on that game and look ahead to Saturday's trip to Brentford.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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All eyes on Wembley...

Matt Davies-Adams has two of The Atheltic's finest alongside him - Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher - to look ahead to Sunday's showpiece final as Chelsea face Liverpool in the League Cup.

There's a comprehensive preview of the game including team selection, Liverpool's injury woes, the importance of this competition for the Blues and what it would mean if they were able to come away victorious.

Meanwhile - big news off the pitch after it was revealed that Brighton & Hove Albion head of recruitment Sam Jewell has accepted an offer to join Chelsea... yes, really, another one!

Plus, another huge blow for CFCW with the news that summer signing Mia Fishel has picked up an ACL injury.

We of course finish with a quiz... and a potential omen for Sunday's final?

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on events at Wembley (COME ON CHELSEA!)

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Well that was rather good...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Dom Fifield and Simon Johnson - to reflect on the hugely impressive 1-1 draw with Manchester City at The Etihad. There's a glowing on-the-whistle report from Liam Twomey as Poch's men put in a performance to remember to take another point off the title favourites.

Not such good news for CFCW though - beaten for the first time at home in almost three years in the WSL as the title race was blown wide open following their 1-0 defeat by Man City.

We'll be back on Thursday to take a deep dive into Sunday's League Cup final showdown with Liverpool at Wembley.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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What a weekend for a double dose of Manchester City, hey...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher to look ahead to Saturday evening's visit to the Etihad to take on the Premier League champions - currently on an 11 game winning streak in all competitions!

Meanwhile on Friday night, CFC welcome nearest title rivals City to Kingsmeadow in a game that could go a long way to deciding who takes home the WSL title. A game of such magnitude means we must draft in Jessy Parker Humphrey's to help us look ahead.

There's a round up of the Blues news elsewhere before Liam tries his best to regain some respectability in the quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect in events - whatever the outcome!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Thirteen certainly isn't unlucky for some...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey to reflect on the dramatic late 3-1 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

There was also FA Cup joy for the women's team against Palace - narrowly beating the Championship side 1-0 thanks to a glorious, audacious finish from Mayra Ramirez.

And you guessed it - a hat-trick of success against the Eagles as the under 18s booked their place in the quarter finals of the FA Youth cup with a 2-1 victory! Sorry Dom...

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the completely undaunting prospect of a trip to the Etihad - and the potentially season-defining WSL clash between CFCW and Man City on Friday night.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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A pretty monumental win...

Matt Davies Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield - to reflect on the hugely impressive and important 3-1 win over Aston Villa.

Simon Johnson sends in perhaps his most positive post-match report of the season, before we dive into the performance, its significance, team selection and what it means for Pochettino.

Now - can they take that momentum into the Dom Derby? We look ahead to Monday night's visit to Selhurst Park to take on a severely depleted Crystal Palace side.

It was also a very good Wednesday night at the office for CFCW - who cruised through to the Conti Cup semi-finals with a resounding 5-0 win over Sunderland. Next up, Crystal Palace in the FA Cup on Sunday!

We'll be back at the later time of Tuesday to reflect on events in SE25.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Normal service resumed...

Matt Davies Adams is joined by Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher to pick through the bones of a pretty miserable 4-2 defeat by Wolves at Stamford Bridge.

We try and get to the bottom of where it all went wrong after another hugely disappointing result which left a sour atmosphere come the final whistle.

No time to feel sorry for themselves - with the unenviable task of a trip to Villa Park in the FA Cup fourth round replay.

As ever, at least CFCW know what they're doing - with an impressive 3-0 win over Everton at Kingsmeadow to keep their momentum and advantage at the top of the table.

We'll be back on Thursday to see whether Chelsea have booked their place in the next round of the FA Cup - and look ahead to the visit to Crystal Palace on Monday night.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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All those draws were boring anyway...

Matt Davies-Adams enlists the services of Luke Bosher and Liam Twomey to look back at the 4-1 defeat dished out by Liverpool on Wednesday night.

We begin with the transfer latest on deadline day, before turning our attention to events at Anfield with the help of a doom and gloom Simon Johnson on the whistle report.

Next up, Wolves come to town on Sunday afternoon. There's a look ahead to that one which is mercifully at Stamford Bridge given the recent woes on the road...

As ever, thank god for CFCW! Who signed off from the Champions League group stages in style with a 4-0 win out in Paris ahead of the visit of Everton in the WSL on Sunday evening.

We'll be back on Monday to round up another busy weekend of Blues news - and look ahead to Wednesday's FA Cup replay at Villa Park.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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They needed some extra games to turn the away form around anyway...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of the Athletic's finest - Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey - to look back on Friday night's relatively entertaining goalless draw with Aston Villa in the FA Cup.

Then there's a look ahead to Wednesday night's trip to Anfield, where Jürgen Klopp's farewell tour begins in earnest.

Meanwhile, CFCW kept up their title charge with a comfortable 3-0 win at Brighton... and guess what? Lauren James was very, very, very good again!

We'll be back on Thursday to preview the visit of Wolves to Stamford Bridge on Sunday - and look back on the League Cup final warm-up.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Penalty shootout with Liverpool, anyone?!

Matt Davies-Adams has two of The Athletic's finest alongside him - Dom Fifield and Simon Johnson - to reflect on the emphatic 6-2 aggregate win over Boro to confirm Chelsea's safe passage to the League Cup final.

We hear from Liam on the final whistle and celebrate the hugely influential return of Ben Chilwell and continued mastery of Cole Palmer.

The cup football just keeps on coming, with Aston Villa in town for Friday night's FA Cup 4th Round tie.

Also success for CFCW - who confirmed top spot in Group D and a place in the quarterfinals of the Champions League with a 2-1 win over Real Madrid.

Plus - a chance to hear from Cobham kid Harvey Vale - who's thriving at Bristol Rovers and sat down with Simon to discuss his special relationship with Alfie Gilchrist.

We'll be back on Monday to hopefully toast to more success - before looking ahead to the tricky trip to Anfield in a dress rehearsal of the latest showdown between these two old rivals at Wembley.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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All hail Emma Hayes...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher as the Blues gear up for arguably their biggest game of the season against Middlesbrough on Tuesday night.

But we start with some love for CFCW manager Emma Hayes - who because the first woman to be honoured with the Football Writers' Tribute award at a ceremony on Sunday night. We hear from Hayes herself - and Fran Kirby on the huge impact she's had on her life and career.

There's a wrap up of the big WSL victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge which featured a hat-trick from the mercurial Lauren James.

We talk loan moves and transfers - with the news that Cesare Casadei and Diego Moreira are back at the club... plus, the latest on Broja's potential departure.

Then - a look ahead to the visit of injury-ravaged Boro on Tuesday - with Poch's boys needing to overturn a one-goal deficit if they're to progress to Wembley. 

We'll be back on Thursday to *hopefully* reflect on Chelsea's progress to the League Cup final - and to preview Friday night's visit of Aston Villa in the FA Cup!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Pure profit, anyone?

Matt Davies-Adams has got Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey alongside him for your second weekly dose of Chelsea chat.

We begin with the news broken by The Athletic's David Ornstein that the club are prepared to listen to offers for striker Armando Broja.

Then we take your questions - including whether progress has been made, dream fully fit XI's, and when José Mourinho will return as manager...

Plus, our pal Jessy Parker Humphrey's drops by to preview the huge WSL clash for CFCW against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that game - and look ahead to the League Cup semi-final second leg against Middlesbrough.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Argylle, anyone?

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher to reflect on the 1-0 victory over Fulham at Stamford Bridge...

Liam Twomey sends in his on the whistle report - before we take your thoughts and round up the story of the game, which wasn't necessarily pretty but secured the Blues' fourth straight home win for the first time since 2020.

Meanwhile, CFCW were back in action in the FA Cup - and had to rely on a two late goals in extra-time to overcome West Ham in the fourth round.

Chelsea's men might have the weekend off - but we'll be back on Thursday with a mailbag special!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Are we sure it's not still 2023?

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey with the unenviable task of looking back on the 1-0 League Cup semi-final first leg defeat by Middlesbrough.

We plough through some of your angry thoughts and questions as we analyse the result - and where the blame should lie.

No time to dwell - with Fulham making the short trip down the road for a West London derby at lunchtime on Saturday. We preview that game before resurecting the quiz for the first time in 2024...

We'll be back on Monday to hopefully reflect on an important Premier League victory - and CFCW's return to action in the FA Cup!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Well, we enjoyed the last 45 minutes at least...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey alongside him to reflect on the 4-0 victory over Preston North End in the third round of the FA Cup. We round up the game of two halves, ask whether Sterling is back in Poch's good books after that stunning free kick - and give some love to Alfie Gilchrist and the other Cobham kids who got the chance to shine.

The cup football just keeps on coming - with a trip to Teeside to preview ahead of Tuesday's League Cup semi-final first leg at Middlesbrough...

Plus, we've got reaction to the devastating news that CFCW's talismanic striker Sam Kerr has picked up a season-ending ACL injury. Jessy Parker Humphrey's sends in their verdict of what this means for the title race and the rest of the campaign going forward.

We'll be back on Thursday to round up events from the first leg, look ahead to the visit of Fulham to Stamford Bridge - and preview the return of the WSL.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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A whirlwind week and a half of festive football...

Matt Davies-Adams is back! With two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Simon Johnson alongside him - to reflect on the Blues' fortunes over Christmas and New Year.

There's lessons from the disappointing defeat at Wolves, late victory from the penalty spot against Crystal Palace and chaos at Kenilworth Road - which left MoPo's side with 6 points from a possible 9.

The games keep on coming - with Preston North End visiting SW6 in the FA Cup on Saturday evening - we tease ahead to that game too...

We'll be back next Monday to reflect on the third round and preview Tuesday's trip to Teeside to face Middlesbrough in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Season's greetings...

Matt Davies-Adams has got the WHOLE gang alongside him as we sign off for 2023 in a buoyant mood following the penalty shootout triumph over Newcastle.

There's a review of that game, a look back on a ~testing~ 2023 for CFC, plus a look ahead to hopefully happier times as we speculate as to what 2024 could have in store for Poch & co.

There's a preview of the upcoming games over Christmas against Wolves, Crystal Palace and Luton - plus Jessy Parker Humphrey's pops in to give their take on CFCW's win over Häcken and the wider picture for Emma Hayes' side.

Then - Matt and Producer Lucy face a bumper quiz...

We'll be back on the 3rd of January to round up all the festive fixture fallout and look ahead to the 3rd round of the FA Cup!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Much, much needed...

Two of The Athletic's finest - Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield - are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the crucial 2-0 win over Sheffield United. There's an on the whistle report from Simon Johnson, praise as always for Cole Palmer - and some head-scratching as to what the future holds for Conor Gallagher.

Then - it's all eyes on arguably the biggest match of the season as we preview the visit of Newcastle in Tuesday night's League Cup quarter-final.

Plus, CFCW got back to winning ways in a 3-0 win at Bristol City - including yet more sheer brilliance for Lauren James.

We'll be back on Thursday with our end of year bonanza rounding up the midweek fixtures, looking back on the annus horribilis that was 2023 - and looking ahead to a (hopefully) positive 2024.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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A set of matches that could define Chelsea's season?

Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher alongside him to look ahead to the visit of Sheffield United on Saturday.

But we begin with the hugely depressing news that captain Reece James will be out for the foreseeable future after aggravating his hamstring injury. Oh, and some amortisation chat too...

Then it's all eyes of the Blades, as we preview the game through the prism of potential starting XI's and what that could mean for Poch and co.

Plus - there's more quiz chaos as counting becomes an issue for our host...!

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the Sheffield United game and look ahead to the visit of Newcastle in the League Cup.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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39 points from 39 games in 2023...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher alongside him to round up the latest frustrating defeat at Goodison Park.

We take your questions, discuss the general malaise around the club at the moment - and wonder whether the owners need to take more accountability for the current state of things on and off the pitch.

When it rains it pours - as Chelsea Women were comfortably beaten 4-1 by Arsenal at The Emirates in a hugely underwhelming performance from Emma Hayes' side.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the visit of Sheffield United to Stamford Bridge.

Produced by Lucy OIiva.

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Eight points behind *this* United team...

Matt Davies Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher to reflect on the horror 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford.

We take a deep dive into some of the worst elements of the performance, Pochettino's demeanour, ponder the bleakness of what this result means for the wider season - and take your questions.

Next up, the unenviable task of a trip to Goodison Park to take on an Everton side full of fury against the Premier League overlords.

The only silver lining is that Jessy Parker Humphrey's is back in the house to look ahead to the small matter of Arsenal v Chelsea in front of a near sell-out crowd at The Emirates.

Oh, and an Toffee related quiz to try and...raise spirits?!

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the fortunes of CFC and CFCW...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Well - at least it's not dull right?!

Matt Davies-Adams has got two of The Athletic's finest Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him to round up the bonkers 3-2 win over Brighton at Stamford Bridge.

It was another rollercoaster of an afternoon involving Chelsea - but there's praise for a huge afternoon for Enzo Fernandez, thoughts on the Gallagher red and general chaos that comes with this side.

Plus we've got a rare midweek fixture to look forward to - with a trip to Old Trafford to take on a seemingly hopeless and hapless Manchester United side who are somehow five points above the Blues in the table.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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A response is needed...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Dom Fifield and Luke Bosher alongside him to look ahead to the visit of Brighton to Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

We ponder team selection given some of the costly suspensions in the backline, whether Roberto De Zerbi's swashbuckling style will actually suit Chelsea - and if the much-anticipated return of Nkunku could be upon us...

There's a quick recap of the Blues news elsewhere - including what Andrey Santos' next move could be following his failed loan at Forest - before we quiz!

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the Seagulls game and look ahead to the midweek visit to Old Trafford...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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It was all going too well...

Matt Davies-Adams has The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to reflect on the hugely disappointing 4-1 defeat at St. James' Park.

But we begin with our tributes to Terry Venables - who has sadly died at the age of 80.

There's analysis of where it all went so horribly wrong against Newcastle, Poch's post-match fury, ill-discipline and your thoughts on the performance.

At least we can always count on CFCW - continuing their unbeaten start to the season and picking up their 20th (!) consecutive home WSL win after their 5-2 triumph over Leicester at Kingsmeadow.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the visit of old friends Brighton to Stamford Bridge.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Better late than never...

Sickness has threatened to derail proceedings but alas - Matt Davies-Adams has got Dom Fifield and Producer Lucy alongside him to chat the latest Blues news and look ahead to the trip to Newcastle on Saturday.

We talk stadium redevelopment and the threat of sanctions before turning our focus to matters on the pitch - and Chelsea's hopes of coming away from Tyneside with all three points...

There's praise for CFCW after their turned on the style in the Champions League on Thursday night - plus Matt subjects us all to a quiz....

We'll be back on Monday (with hopefully a fully fit squad!) to reflect on the weekend's action.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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WHAT. A. GAME. !!!

Matt Davies-Adams has Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher alongside him to reflect on the extraordinary 4-4 draw with Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.

We take your thoughts and questions - lauding Cole Palmer, the character and spirit showed by the players - and what an important week it's been for Mauricio Pochettino.

It was a good weekend all round - with CFCW picking up a 3-0 victory at Everton and the U21's tasting victory at Leeds.

We're taking our own imposed international break - but we'll be back next Thursday to look ahead to the trip to Newcastle once the Premier League returns!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Recovered from Monday night yet?

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey to look ahead to the visit of Manchester City to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.

We ponder team selection, the Cole Palmer Derby, embracing the underdog status and whether the Blues are actually a bit better than we're giving them credit for...

The Emma Hayes farewell tour begins on Sunday - when CFCW make the trip to Everton. We have a quick look ahead to that one and reflect further on the news of Hayes' departure - before embarking on a quiz!

We'll be back on Monday to round up the City and Everton fixtures - whatever the results...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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The purest of pure Barclays...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by two of The Athletic's finest - Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson - to TRY and round up one of the most ludicrous matches in Premier League history.

It finished Tottenham 1 Chelsea 4 - but how did we get there and how on earth did Nicholas Jackson manage to score a hat-trick?! And why on earth did Spurs play into their hands?! And just what the HELL was going on?!!!

Amid all the chaos we almost forget the seismic news to reach us on Saturday - that rather unthinkably, Emma Hayes will be leaving the club at the end of the season. Times like these call for an emergency appearance from the one and only Jessy Parker Humphreys to tell us more.

We'll be back on Thursday to preview the visit of Manchester City (eek) to Stamford Bridge.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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A precious home win...

Luke Bosher, Dom Fifield and Matt Davies-Adams are with you to reflect on the 2-0 win over Blackburn which secured safe passage to the quarter-finals of the League Cup - and set up a meeting with high-flying Newcastle in the next round.

Simon Johnson pops up with his take live from Stamford Bridge - before we round up the rest of the main talking points from the ultimately comfortable win for the Blues.

Then it's the small matter of a look ahead to the visit to North London on Monday night in the first official 'Mauricio Pochettino Derby' as he takes on his former side Tottenham. We've got a full preview and look at how Chelsea can go about nullifying and ultimately beating the table-toppers...

There's a word on the other Blues news including CFCW's trip to Aston Villa - we've got a quiz which takes *rather* a long time to complete.

We'll be back on Tuesday hot off the back of that game to HOPEFULLY be reflecting on a statement win for Poch & co.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Just when you think things are starting to turn...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher to reflect on the 2-0 defeat by Brentford at Stamford Bridge.

With just one win in THIRTEEN Premier League home matches - we try and get to the root of the problem in SW6.

Attention then turns to Wednesday night - and the visit of Blackburn Rovers in the fourth round of the League Cup. We pick our starting XI for that game and highlight the importance of this competition for the Blues.

We'll be back on Thursday to hopefully assess safe passage to the next round - and look ahead to Monday night's visit to Tottenham in the Poch derby...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Can Chelsea avoid being stung again?

The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to the visit of Brentford to Stamford Bridge.

We begin with an insight into the visitors with the help of Bees expert Jay Harris - plus questioning whether Ivan Toney is a likely January target for Mauricio Pochettino...

Plenty of focus on how Chelsea approach the game including some of the key selection issues - and how important it is to give the home crowd a much-needed win.

There's a brief round up of the Blues news elsewhere - before we quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to handle all the fallout from Saturday's early kick-off, plus look ahead to the visit of Blackburn Rovers in the League Cup on Wednesday night.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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So near yet so far...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher to look back on the 2-2 draw with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge. We've got a downbeat Simon Johnson on the whistle report - but we're not quite so despondent about the result and performance in particular. We take your questions and comments and round up the win which slipped through Chelsea's grasp.

Chelsea Women continued their phenomenal winning record on home soil as they came from behind to beat Brighton 4-2 at Kingsmeadow. We touch on that victory for Emma Hayes' side which takes them joint top of the WSL table - and round up the rest of the Blues news.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to Saturday's lunchtime visit of Brentford to the Bridge.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Let's *really* put this Chelsea side to the test then, shall we?

Matt Davies-Adams has got Luke Bosher and Dom Fifield alongside him as the Premier League returns...

We start with a preview of the visit of Arsenal to Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening and all the ~narrative~ around it.

There's a round up of the other Blues news - before paying tribute to Hazard the only way we know now... a quiz! We also pay our tributes - and share some favourite moments of magic.

We'll be back on Monday to hopefully reflect on some big wins for all those of a Chelsea persuasion.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Back-to-back-to-back?!

Two of The Athletic's finest - Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson - are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to round up the 4-1 win at Turf Moor which means the Blues head into the break on a high.

We talk through the result and take your questions - including Sterling's brilliance, praise for Palmer and whether this really means Mauricio Pochettino's side are starting to build some much needed momentum?

There was drama for Chelsea Women - who had to rely on a 96th minute equaliser from Guro Reiten to steal a point against the nine players of Manchester City.

Plus, we've got our own nursery rhyme for you which Matt delivers with real gusto..

We're taking a hiatus for the international break but will be back on Thursday 19th October to look ahead to the visit of Arsenal to Stamford Bridge on Saturday night.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Dreaming of two Premier League wins on the bounce for the first time since March?!

Dom Fifield and Luke Bosher join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to the visit to Turf Moor to take on Burnley on Saturday afternoon.

There's also a huge tie for the women's team - making the trip to Manchester City and hoping to avenge their 2-0 defeat there last season.

Plus, Matt tries to redeem himself after a disgracefully easy quiz last week - which has us pondering obscure Chelsea midfielders from 2008...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the fortunes of the men's and women's teams as we head into the second international break of the season.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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This whole winning malarkey is fun, isn't it?!

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's finest Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson to reflect on the 2-0 win at Fulham under the lights on Monday night.

Producer Lucy and Simon send an excitable voice note - before we take hear from Levi Colwill, take your questions and round up a hugely positive night for Mauricio Pochettino's side.

It was also a good weekend for Chelsea Women - registering a 2-1 win over Tottenham at Stamford Bridge in their WSL season opener as they go in search of their fifth straight title.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the long trip to Turf Moor to face Burnley.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Well, this is a foreign feeling...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield alongside him to look back on the goal (!) and win (!) over good friends Brighton in a feisty League Cup encounter at Stamford Bridge.

The question is - can they keep it going down the road at Craven Cottage in the Premier League on Monday night? There's a preview of that derby and plenty to ponder in terms of team selection. Up top? Right back? Left back? We try and figure out what system Mauricio Pochettino might employ against the Whites.

The WSL is finally back - with Chelsea Women getting their title defence underway against Tottenham on Sunday.

There's a look ahead to that, some hot pudding chat, and a quiz...

We'll be back on Tuesday to hopefully round up a winning weekend for all those involved with Chelsea.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Is the season over yet?

Matt Davies-Adams is accompanied by two of The Athletic's finest - Luke Bosher and Simon Johnson - to round up the inevitable 1-0 defeat by Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge.

We analyse the performance, Malo Gusto's red card - and Nicholas Jackson's inability to avoid yellows.

There's no time to feel sorry for themselves because old friends Brighton are in town on Wednesday night in the League Cup. We pick XI's for the game and wonder whether there's any hope of progress to the fourth round?!

We'll be back on Thursday to pick up the pieces from that match - and mercifully look ahead to the start of the new WSL season - and a Chelsea side who know a thing or two about winning...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Who needs European football anyway?

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey to look ahead to Sunday's visit of Aston Villa to Stamford Bridge.

We start with some... positivity?! As Michael Cox explains why the Blues' start to the season hasn't been as bad as it seems.

Plenty on the agenda as we take your questions including why there's so much negativity, whether too much pressure is being mounted on Nicholas Jackson - and the state of limbo Conor Gallagher finds himself in.

Plus - can Liam shed his quizzing hoodoo and get the better of Dom?

We'll be back on Monday to look back on the Villa game - and look ahead to the visit of our old friends Brighton in the League Cup on Wednesday night.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Don't you just love a trip to the seaside...

Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the uninspiring goalless draw at Bournemouth on Sunday. Plus a chance to hear from Mauricio Pochettino - who says he can understand the grumblings from fans already...

We take your questions including why there's so little confidence in front of goal, whether the incredible number of injuries can be blamed for the poor start - and how much patience we should expect from the owners.

There's also a look ahead to what the next few weeks hold for the Blues fixture wise as we go in search of the next win - and a word on some of the cost-cutting behind the scenes.

We'll be back on Thursday to preview the visit of Aston Villa.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Chelsea's title charge starts now...

The Athletic's Blues experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson join Matt Davies-Adams to wrap up the international break and look ahead to a trip to the seaside as they prepare to face tricky foes Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.

We begin with a runthrough of the fortunes of some of Mauricio Pochettino's men on duty with their countries - including more struggles for Mykhailo Mudryk and pondering why Levi Colwill didn't get a shot for England while a certain out of favour defender did...

Next, we take a closer look at the squad audit Liam did for The Athletic -with a look at the strengths and weaknesses of this incredibly young crop of players which has been assembled.

Then it's all eyes on that game against the Cherries - a word on the latest with the ongoing search for a shirt sponsor, a special 'Elsewhere in Chelsea news' after the legends put on a show at Stamford Bridge - before we wrap things up with a quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the trip to the seaside and hopefully an important three points for the Blues!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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There's something awfully familiar about sitting 12th in the table...

Matt Davies-Adams has his professional and personal allegiances tested in the company of The Athletic's Simon Johnson and Dom Fifield.

We begin by reflecting on the 1-0 defeat by Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge. There's team selection dilemmas, performance worries and goalscoring difficulties.

Then, a chance to round up the deadline day dealings after the window *slammed* shut on Friday - and a look at the transfer business across the summer as a whole.

We're taking our own international break - but will see you next Thursday (the 14th of September) to preview the trip to Bournemouth.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Luke Bosher alongside him to reflect on the 2-1 win over League Two AFC Wimbledon in the second round of the League Cup.

By the time you listen to the podcast this *whole* section may be completely redundant - but with just over 24 hours to go in the transfer window we talk through some of the latest done and potential deals - including Cole Palmer, Emile Smith Rowe, Trevoh Chalobah, Marc Cucurella and more...

With the international break just around the corner, we preview the visit of Nottingham Forest to Stamford Bridge.

And finally - it's a first outing for the Bosher v Twomey match-up in the quiz...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Three whole points for Chelsea Football Club...

It's a Bank Holiday bonanza as Matt Davies-Adams, Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey bask in the glory of just a second win in 17 games for the Blues.

We reflect on the 3-0 victory over Luton - and celebrate another sensational performance from Raheem Sterling who bagged a brace for Mauricio Pochettino's men.

There's the obligatory transfer talk as we count down to the end of the window - including the arrival of goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, potential loan to Manchester United of Marc Cucurella - and what Andrey Santos should expect at the City Ground.

Then - we pick our starting XI for Wednesday night's visit of AFC Wimbledon - as the Blues get their League Cup campaign underway.

We'll be back on Thursday to round up that match and looking ahead to the visit of Nottingham Forest ahead of the international break!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Anything but a win...and it's crisis talks already?

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to chew over the latest Blues news.

Things get *a little bit heated* as we go through yet another transfer round up - including why Lewis Hall has been allowed to leave, why the can't shift Hudson-Odoi or Lukaku, and why they seem intent on spending more and more and more money.

We've got bonus content - with a chance to hear a sneak peak of a certain Mauricio Pochettino in conversation with Alan Shearer! You can read the full interview on The Athletic from Friday.

Then we look ahead to the visit of Luton Town on Friday night - before finishing things off with the first Fifield v Twomey quiz of the new season...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on events under the lights at Stamford Bridge where Chelsea have hopefully (surely?!) picked up their first three points of the season.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Well, the positivity was fun while it lasted...

Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher are back alongside Matt Davies-Adams to dissect that 3-1 defeat at West Ham. There's penalty nightmares, set piece meltdowns, goalscoring problems, more injury scares, pointed substitutions and much to discuss after an afternoon to forget at London Stadium.

Next we check in on the latest transfer tittle tattle as we enter the closing stages of the transfer window - and round up the rest of the Blues news with World Cup heartache for England and a PL2 defeat to our old friends Brighton.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the Friday night visit of Luton Town at Stamford Bridge.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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What do we talk about now the Caicedo saga is over?!

Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to wrap up another quiet, dull week in the life of Chelsea Football Club.

First up - transfer talk - with Lavia imminent, Olise incoming (umm yeah - about that...), Hall potentially out the door, some confirmed loan deals and the ongoing efforts to shift Ziyech and Lukaku...

Then attention turns to London Stadium - with a derby day to look forward to as the Blues make the trip to West Ham. We preview that game - and try out some chants (!) to see what sticks.

There's some 'Elsewhere in Blues News' - including mixed fortunes for some of CFCW's World Cup stars - and Luke makes his debut in the quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to round up the trip to take on the Hammers.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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1-1 on the pitch, a win for Chelsea off it...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Blues experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him for our first pod of the week - and there's reason to be positive as it looks like a certain Ecuadorian is FINALLY through the door...

The Athletic's Football Correspondent David Ornstein sends us a voice note with the definitive update on the Moisés Caicedo transfer (which has since been rubber stamped since we recorded!)

We reflect on a positive afternoon's work in the 1-1 draw with Liverpool, round-up some of the outgoings - including Kepa to Real Madrid (!) - and find out about Simon's trip to Kingsmeadow as the new-look PL2 season got underway.

We'll be back on Thursday to round up the inevitable transfer latest - and look ahead to Sunday's trip to West Ham.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Here we go...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to kick-off the 2023-24 campaign.

We start with the terrible injury news for Christopher Nkunku - and what the knock-on effect could be in terms of transfers. There's the latest on Caicedo, Lavia and Kepa - and concerns around attacking options if there was anymore injury misfortune...

Then we look ahead to Sunday's match with Liverpool - including predicted starting XI's - and a chance to hear from Levi Colwill who has committed his future to the club and looks set for a big season in the heart of Mauricio Pochettino's defence. We touch upon Reece James' captaincy announcement and ponder what this season really has in store for the Blues.

We've got an update on the Premier League investigation into potential financial rule breaches during Roman Abramovich's ownership of the club - and the latest on the search for a shirt sponsor.

AND OF COURSE - the triumphant return of the quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on hopefully a big opening weekend win over Jürgen Klopp's side.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Not long to wait now...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Simon Johnson and Luke Bosher to round up the latest pre-season talking points and transfer to-and-fro as we enter the final stretch before the 2023-24 season.

We've got Lionesses reaction after the red mist descended for Lauren James, a Liam Twomey special from the beach in Chicago, the arrival of Robert Sánchez - and an update on the seemingly never ending pursuit of Moisés Caicedo.

The we open the mailbag to take your questions on expectancy, captaincy - and everything in between.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to that opening day clash against Liverpool.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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We're back!

Matt Davies-Adams is joined once again by two of The Athletic's finest - Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield - to get stuck into a typically quiet and uneventful summer for Chelsea Football Club (!)

We check in with Liam's adventures Stateside as the Blues win the Premier League Summer Series - and hear from Ben Chilwell who gives a fascinating insight into life under Mauricio Pochettino in pre-season, his words of wisdom for Mykhailo Mudryk and why - unlike so many others - he committed his future to the club.

There's a round up of the players who've left Stamford Bridge - which could take us all day...

Then, we take a look at those who've arrived in SW6 - and the rumours of an audacious swoop for a certain Frenchman...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the Dortmund friendly, check in on the latest transfer news - and turn our attention to the imminent start of the Premier League season.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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The Athletic has just launched its brand new, daily 10 minute podcast for all those people who are just too busy in the mornings for anything longer.

It’s called The Daily Football Briefing and will bring you right up to speed with the biggest stories from the night before and what to expect from the day ahead. Missed a big transfer story? David Ornstein will have you covered. What’s the latest about that club’s takeover saga? Matt Slater will have the latest. What’s Lionel Messi getting up to in MLS? Our American experts will know best.

It’s your essential guide to the biggest stories in football - all wrapped up before you’ve finished your first cup of coffee. Follow and subscribe to The Athletic’s Daily Football Briefing for free wherever you get your podcasts so you don’t miss an episode.

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Straight Outta Cobham is your twice weekly, dedicated Chelsea podcast from The Athletic.

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Goodbye and good riddance, 2022-23...

For the final time this season, The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to round off a year to forget for CFC.

But we start with some good news! For just after we finished recording (of course) it was *finally* confirmed that Mauricio Pochettino is the new Blues boss. Liam pops back to talk us through the announcement.

The respite doesn't last long, as we take you on a trip down memory lane through this shocking campaign, before rounding up the draw with Newcastle and 4-1 hammering at Manchester United - with the help of a vintage Simon Johnson voice note before he escaped on his holidays.

There's joy for CFCW as Emma Hayes' side wrapped up their fourth straight WSL title in style at relegated Reading to continue their supremacy in the women's game.

We revisit some very questionable pre-season predictions, partake in a quiz for old time's sake - and look ahead to what's surely a far more positive 2023-24 season to come...

Enjoy your Chelsea free summers - and we'll be back with you for the new campaign, if not before!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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We've so nearly stumbled over the finishing line...

We begin with our latest edition of 'Why hasn't Mauricio Pochettino been announced as the new Chelsea manager yet?'

Then, there's a round up the exhibition match at the Etihad as the Blues were beaten 1-0 by Manchester City's B team. The less said about that the better - so we move on swiftly and instead try and be upbeat about the trip to Old Trafford and last game of the season against Newcastle.

As has so often been the case this season, at least we have the women's team to bring us some joy! Their commanding 2-0 win over Arsenal means the WSL title is all but definitely coming Chelsea's way barring a disaster against bottom of the table Reading on the final day of the season.

We'll be back for the final time this season next week to wrap up this strangest of campaigns, (hopefully) toast the achievements of Emma Hayes' side - and take a look at our highly accurate pre-season predictions...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Waiting for the official confirmation to drop like...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to round up the latest Blues news with the 2022-23 season mercifully only two weeks from being over.

We start with the latest on the Mauricio Pochettino arrival - and why it's *still* yet to be announced by the club.

The good news is we'll always have Sam Kerr... We toast to Chelsea Women's FA Cup three-peat in front of a world record crowd at Wembley after their 1-0 win over Manchester United.

Then we dissect the 2-2 draw between the two two-time European Champions - and preview Sunday's trip to the Etihad.

We'll be back next week to reflect on the fact that Chelsea have ruined City's title party (!?!) and look ahead to the final two games of the season against Manchester United and Newcastle.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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We are staying up, say we are staying up...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Dom Fifield alongside him to reflect on a very unfamiliar sensation - a win! We analyse the 3-1 victory at Bournemouth - including Mr Johnson in the thick of things in the away end...

But we begin with the latest on the new manager hunt - with Mauricio Pochettino still seemingly poised to take over.

It's the small matter of the MDA derby on Saturday as Nottingham Forest come to town - with the two-time European Champions facing off in a game that's got huge ramifications for the visitors and their hopes of Premier League safety next season.

Then it's all eyes on Wembley and the FA Cup Final! The Athletic's women's football expert Charlotte Harpu joins us to talk all things CFCW and look ahead to the showdown with Manchester United on Sunday.

We'll be back next week to reflect on the men's and women's action - and perhaps we'll officially have a manager to discuss?

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Five more games, just five more games...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the latest disastrous chapter in this horrible season. We analyse the result and performance at The Emirates and touch base on where we stand in terms of the proposed arrival of Mauricio Pochettino - and Todd Boehly's latest conference appearance...

Normally a trip to the seaside is something to look forward to... Not so much for Chelsea fans making the journey down to Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon! The Cherries know a win will see them leapfrog above Frank Lampard's side the table. We look ahead to that game and pick up some of the players we'd like to see given a start.

Thank the lord for Sam Kerr, hey? She bags an 86th minute winner against Liverpool to ensure their WSL title hopes are still very much alive.

We'll be back next week to reflect on the Bournemouth match - and look ahead to another relegation six-pointer with the Blues welcoming Nottingham Forest to Stamford Bridge.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Make it stop...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey to reflect on the latest dire chapter in this sorry season following the 2-0 defeat by Brentford at Stamford Bridge. It's now five straight defeats under Frank Lampard as the Blues continued the form which sees them sitting just 10 points above the bottom three.

We dissect the performance and result - and take your questions as we try to understand where it's all gone so horribly wrong.

In more positive news - it looks like the club could be close to securing a new manager... with Mauricio Pochettino in the driving seat to take over. We get the latest on the deal, whether he's the right man - and what his priorities will be if he does indeed take over.

Chelsea fans can take solace in the fact it looks like Arsenal's title hopes have gone out the window - Adrian Clarke from Handbrake Off joins us to tease ahead to Tuesday night's game at The Emirates.

We'll be back next week to round up the meeting with the Gooners and look ahead to the visit of Bournemouth!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Not to be, listener...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea experts Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey alongside him as the Blues crash out of the Champions League courtesy of a 4-0 aggregate defeat by Real Madrid.

We give our thoughts on the tie, the shortcomings of Frank Lampard's side and where it went wrong over the two legs.

Attention then turns to what this means for the remainder of the season with seven Premier League games still to play, what Frank Lampard will do next, and how they should approach the final six weeks or so in terms of personnel and playing time...

In FAR more positive news Chelsea Women have a UWCL semi-final to look forward too!! Charlotte Harpur drops in to tease ahead to Saturday's first leg with the formidable Barcelona at Stamford Bridge.

We finish up with the furore around the owners dressing room visits - and club legend Didier Drogba's comments that 'It is not the same club any more'.

A merciful weekend off from Chelsea after four straight defeats for the first time since 1993 - we'll be back next Thursday after they welcome Brentford to Stamford Bridge... what could possibly go wrong!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Even Super Frank can't get a tune out of them...yet...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey to round up another bonkers week in the life of CFC.

We begin with Thursday's news that Frank Lampard has returned to Stamford Bridge until the end of the season.

There's a look back at the woeful 1-0 defeat at Wolves - before we TRY and find some positive vibes going into Wednesday night's trip to the Santiago Bernabéu for the first leg of the Champions League quarter final with Real Madrid.

We'll be back next week and hopefully have something good to talk about!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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It's never, ever, EVER dull is it?

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams for a BUMPER Straight Outta Cobham following the sacking of Graham Potter.

We kick things off with Liam Twomey's voice note following the 2-0 defeat by Aston Villa which proved to be the final straw in the hugely disappointing seven month reign of Potter. We then get into the nuts and bolts of the decision to finally pull the plug... How did we get here? What happens next? And how worried should we be for the future?

There's a round up of the goalless draw with fellow strugglers Liverpool - a match which summed up the seasons of both clubs - plus a quick look ahead to Saturday's visit to Wolves.

Producer Lucy's got a word on the wonder that is CFCW - and we tease ahead to some of the work you can look forward to from The Athletic over the next few days.

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the game at Molineux, look ahead to the trip to the Bernabéu *eek* for the Champions League quarter-final first leg with Real Madrid, and potentially discuss a new manager at the helm...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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He's dodged the Spurs bullet...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey join Matt Davies-Adams to sift through the main Blues news as the international break rumbles on.

Thomas Tuchel has a new job - thankfully not in North London - but is he poaching one of his former coaching staff to join him at Bayern Munich? And just how tantilising would a UCL semi-final showdown with him be for the club and Graham Potter?

There was disappointment in the WSL for Chelsea Women who fell to a 2-0 defeat at Manchester City but still have destiny in their own hands in the league - and Champions League where they have a one-goal advantage going into Thursday night's second leg with Lyon.

We take a look at home some of the senior men have got on on international duty including another injury worry for Reece James, the confusion over Mason Mount's call-up - and the ongoing frustrations for Mykhailo Mudryk and his form.

We'll be back next Wednesday to reflect on PLENTY of action including Aston Villa, Liverpool and Lyon!

***

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When we grow up we want to be like Guro Reiten...

We've got a full house of SOC'ers alongside Matt Davies-Adams as for the final time this season Jessy Parker Humphreys and Sam Parkin lend their expertise to The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson, Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey.

Jessy joins us hot off the tarmac to reflect on the women's hugely impressive 1-0 quarter-final first-leg win over Champions League holders Lyon over in France.

Then, we open up the mailbag to take your questions with the international break in full swing.

And we've got a MEGA quiz to wrap up our last Thursday show - as from now on we'll be coming to you just once a week through to the end of the 2022-23 campaign.

We'll be back on Monday to round up how some of the Blues have got on on international duty and look ahead to the visit of Aston Villa!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Four wins in a row would just be greedy...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to look back at the frustrating 2-2 draw with the Toffees and Stamford Bridge on Saturday. We question whether dropping more points even matters in the scheme of things, give some love to Enzo and Félix - and highlight the defensive frailties which reared their head again in an otherwise impressive performance for Potter's men.

There's time to reflect on Friday's Champions League draw - which dished our CFC v Real Madrid Part III! With the quarter-final tie just under a month away, do the Blues have a realistic chance of progressing? And how best should they prepare for the ties when there's nothing really left to play for in the Premier League?

Elsewhere, Chelsea Women booked their place in the FA Cup semi-finals with a 3-1 win at Reading...now it's the small matter of Lyon in the UWCL to come...

We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on that game, take some of your questions and look ahead to the international break.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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They couldn't win four in a row, could they?!

Matt Davies-Adams has got Jessy Parker Humphreys and Sam Parkin with him to look ahead to Saturday's visit of Everton.

We begin with some of the other Blues news, including the new-look Club World Cup, the fitness of Édouard Mendy and the return of Romelu Lukaku next season...

Then it's all eye on that match against the Toffees under the lights on Saturday night at Stamford Bridge.

There's a preview of Sunday's Women's FA Cup quarter-final against Brighton - and a Thursday quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the last game before the international break.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Three goals?! Three goals in one game?!

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the 3-1 victory at Leicester. We hear from a couple of the star performers - Ben Chilwell and Kai Havertz - while rounding up the win and discussing the main takeaways from a third straight triumph in the space of a week - for the first time since October!

It was a huge Sunday for the women's team - who bounced back from last week's League Cup final disappointment with a 1-0 win over title rivals Manchester United thanks to... Yep, you guessed it... Sam Kerr! Jessy Parker Humphreys sends us an on the whistle report.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the last action before the international break as Everton come to town in the Premier League.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Magic...

Jessy Parker Humphreys and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the momentous 2-0 win over Borussia Dortmund which saw Chelsea progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League 2-1 on aggregate. We've got a mega voice note from Simon and Liam at Stamford Bridge before rounding up some of the star performers, praise for Potter and a full debrief of the game.

Away from all that excitement we also had good news for the women's team who picked up a big three points against Brighton in the WSL to bounce back from the League Cup final defeat to maintain their title charge.

Then it's onto the weekend, with a trip to the King Power to take on a Leicester side who have won just once at home since October...against Spurs no less!

There's a smattering of other Blues news before we round it all off with a quiz.

We'll be back on Monday to wrap up the Leicester game and the crucial WSL tie against Manchester United.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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We'd forgotten what it felt like...

Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on Chelsea's first victory since the 15th of January!! The 1-0 win over Leeds means the Blues sit 11 points behind fourth-placed Tottenham with a game in hand...

We round up the match, take the positives and negatives from the performance and question whether the result will have appeased fans after some rumblings in the stands given the nature of the victory.

Not such good news for the women's team - who were beaten 3-1 by Arsenal at Selhurst Park in the League Cup final. Jessy Parker Humphrey's sends us a match report after a disappointing afternoon for Emma Hayes' side.

Then, it's all eyes on the UCL with Borussia Dortmund in town and Graham Potter's side needing to overturn a one-goal deficit if they're to progress to the last eight of the competition. We pick our starting XI for the second leg and look ahead to Tuesday's match.

We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on the midweek Champions League action and look ahead to the trip to Leicester.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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The season starts here...maybe...probably not...but maybe...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Jessy Parker Humphreys and Simon Johnson alongside him to look ahead to Saturday's match with Leeds at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea Women go in search of their first silverware of the season when they face familiar foes Arsenal in Sunday's League Cup final. We preview that game - including some of the key team selection quandaries - and the importance of Emma Hayes' big game experience.

We've got a word on the new fan advisory board, a scouting report from Monday's PL2 victory over Arsenal, and....a quiz!!

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on a busy weekend of action - and look ahead to the season-defining second leg with Borussia Dortmund.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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You know it's bad when you lose at Tottenham...

Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams for our latest Chelsea pity party following the 2-0 defeat in North London. It's now just two wins in 15 Premier League games for Graham Potter's side - who sit closer to the relegation zone than Champions League places.

We take your thoughts and questions, assess the performance and try and figure out what's next for this team...

Some much needed relief was offered by Chelsea Women after their 2-0 FA Cup win over rivals Arsenal at Kingsmeadow - including yet another goal from Sam Kerr as she adds to her astonishing tally. Jessy Parker-Humphrey's sends us a match report from a *far* more enjoyable result!

And as it's a legal requirement for Sam and Dom to lock horns in a quiz - we've got a bonus Monday edition to lift the spirits, which predictably descends into chaos...

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the visit of Leeds at Stamford Bridge - AND Sunday's Continental Cup final.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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You just can't go losing this game...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Jessy Parker Humphreys and Liam Twomey to preview Sunday's trip to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to face fierce rivals Spurs.

The Athletic's Tottenham writer Tim Spiers joins us to give some insight into the North Londoners, who look set to be without a certain Antonio Conte on the sidelines once again...

There's a deep dive into some of the excellent pieces on the site at the moment including the current state of affairs at Cobham - and what the future holds for Mason Mount.

We've got a look ahead to CFCW's return to action as they face Arsenal in the FA Cup on Sunday - plus we heap yet more praise on Lauren James after she starred once again for England as they retained the Arnold Clark Cup.

We round things up with a quiz - and we'll be back on Monday to (HOPEFULLY (!!!!)) reflect on resounding wins for the men and women's teams.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Just when you think it can't get any worse...

Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams for our latest Chelsea-induced therapy session after the 1-0 defeat to bottom of the table, managerless Southampton at Stamford Bridge.

We question why things are going quite so wrong, whether Graham Potter's future is in doubt, if the relationship with the fans can be salvaged - and what's next in SW6.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to Sunday's trip to North London to take on Tottenham...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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It's still all to play for, right?

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Sam Parkin and Jessy Parker Humphreys to reflect on the 1-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie. There were positives to take - but the same old story of chance after chance after chance (!) yet no end product.

There's an immediate gear change back to the Premier League as bottom of the table and managerless Southampton visit Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon. We look ahead to that game and ponder some of Graham Potter's selection headaches.

Of course we've got the latest episode in the Jessy/ Sam quiz saga - and a brief word on the Blues news elsewhere with the CFCW not playing thanks to the international break.

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that match - and hopefully a much-needed win! - against Southampton.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Five wins in 16 Premier League matches under Graham Potter...

Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on yet another frustrating afternoon for Chelsea, held to a 1-1 draw at West Ham despite dominating much of the game. We discuss *that* handball, Kai Havertz's struggles, and the pressure on the Blues boss to be more José...

There's no time to rest- with the Champions League returning and the small matter of a trip to Borussia Dortmund in the Round of 16 First Leg on Wednesday night. We'll preview that game and give some potential starting XI's.

We'll be back at the end of the week to look back on that game - and preview Saturday's meeting with bottom of the table Southampton at Stamford Bridge!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Hammer time upcoming...

Jessy Parker-Humphreys and the returning Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to the trip to West Ham on Saturday. Who'll feature? Will we see the long-awaited return of James and Chilwell? Can the Blues get their first Premier League away win since October?!

Then - a special treat - as we hear a little taste of Simon's interview with club captain César Azpilicueta, hot off the back of his 500th appearance for the club. Be sure to check out the full interview in The Athletic. Dave talks about his decision to stay amid interest from Barcelona, his job in imparting the CFC DNA into the new arrivals - and why we shouldn't write this season off just yet.

There's a round up of the other Blues news - including a new contract for women's goalkeeper Zećira Mušović - plus a quiz between probably our two most decorated contestants...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the result at London Stadium - and look ahead to a trip to Dortmund!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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So, money can't buy you goals...

Sam Parkin and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the goalless draw between Chelsea and Fulham under the lights at Stamford Bridge. We've got a MEGA voice note from the game - plus some more considered thoughts on Havertz's role, what the priorities should be for the rest of the season, and the tactical battles they face going forward...

Just prior to the game on Friday night we found out that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had been left out of the Champions League squad. We ponder what this means for his future at the club - and Graham Potter's authority. Plus with no room for Benoît Badiashile either - could they be left short at the back with Borussia Dortmund just around the corner?

Elsewhere there was much better news for Chelsea Women, who's 3-2 win at Tottenham - alongside goalless draws for their two title rivals Manchester United and Arsenal - means they've opened up a gap at the top of the WSL table. Evidence once more that Lauren James is a *ridiculously* good footballer!

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the trip to West Ham.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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And breathe...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Sam Parkin and Jessy Parker Humphreys along for the ride as the January transfer window *finally* slammed shut.

Liam (and Ruby) send us a voice note (trying!) to sum up a bonkers deadline day for Chelsea Football Club - including a new British record transfer fee, a departing vice-captain and an administrative shambles..

Away from the spending - the Blues have got a Premier League match to worry about - with Fulham making the trip to Stamford Bridge on Friday night! We look ahead to that game - and pick a potential, dream starting XI.

There's a round up of the other Blues news - including Chelsea Women's WSL tie against Spurs on Sunday - and our customary Thursday quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that game.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Time for one last, big deal?

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams as the January transfer window reaches fever pitch...

We round up the arrival of Malo Gusto, check in with the latest on Enzo Fernández - and have news of a promising youngster heading out on loan.

The senior men may not have been in action - but it was bad news elsewhere with defeats in the FA Youth Cup and PL2 - with Simon in attendance at both! Not that we're suggesting there's a correlation (!)

Better news for the women's team though - who booked their place in the last 16 of the FA Cup thanks to a 3-2 win over Liverpool - an a hat-trick for the inevitable Sam Kerr. Jessy Parker-Humphrey's sends us a match report - and news of an audacious transfer bid...

We'll be back on Thursday to round up any last minute deadline day deals and look ahead to the return to Premier League action as a date with Fulham under the lights on Friday night awaits.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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UEFA's feathers? Consider them ruffled...

Simon Johnson and Jessy Parker Humphreys are in the hot seat alongside Matt Davies-Adams to round up the latest Blues news - on a rare weekend of no action for the men's side!

We begin with some transfer chatter, including rules which appear to be ~inspired~ by Chelsea, a potential new deal for the ageless Thiago Silva - and the other rumours that continue to swirl regarding incomings and outgoings with just a few days of the window to go.

Attention then turns to the women's team - after a comfortable 3-1 win over Tottenham to book their place in the semi-finals of the Continental Cup. The cup action continues with the visit of Liverpool in the FA Cup on Sunday...we look ahead to that game, which will hopefully go ahead in its entirety...

Simon gives us an insight into his excellent piece with the development squad's head coach Mark Robinson - and the quiz gives us a chance to christen the new Darren Barnard of SOC...

We'll be back on Monday on the eve of transfer deadline day to round up a busy weekend of action - for everyone but Graham Potter's team!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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All eyes on you, Mykhailo...

Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the mid-table meeting between Liverpool and Chelsea - which rather predictably ended in a goalless draw! But - with the help of your questions and musings we pick out plenty of reasons to be positive about the point.

We hoped to have a big win in the other showdown between these two clubs on the women's side - but a farcical postponement after just six minutes at the ice rink that was Kingsmeadow has caused much angst.

There's time to check in on a couple of the latest transfers - including the confirmed arrival of the exciting 20-year-old winger Noni Madueke - and rumours of a potential departure for Mason Mount...

No FA Cup fixture to look ahead to at the weekend for the men - but we'll be back on Thursday to hopefully preview the women's FA Cup tie with Liverpool - and any latest transfer news.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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A Liverpool - Chelsea double header you say?

Jessy Parker Humphreys and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to the meetings with the red half of Merseyside for both the men's and women's teams.

We start with Graham Potter's side - who make the trip up to Anfield on Saturday lunchtime knowing a win would take them above their hosts. We question whether Mudryk will get the nod, if any injury doubts will be back in contention - and how the Blues can exploit the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Then, it's down to Kingsmeadow as Chelsea Women host Liverpool Women - hoping to avenge their shock opening day WSL defeat to Matt Beard's side.

Oh - and don't forget the quiz...and spelling bee!!

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on both of those results.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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A win's a win...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.

Perhaps the most exciting thing to happen SW6 was the unveiling of Mykhailo Mudryk at half-time - after an audacious swoop over the weekend to snatch him from the grasps of Arsenal. The Athletic's Adam Crafton has watched him closely at Shakhtar Donetsk and joins us to give the lowdown on the deal and what Chelsea fans can expect from the £89 million man...

Elsewhere, the return of the WSL from the winter break saw the Blues pick up a precious point against title rivals Arsenal thanks to a last gasp goal from Sam Kerr in front of more than 46,000 fans at the Emirates. Jessy Parker Humphrey's sends us a match report on what could prove to be a decisive draw in the fight for the title.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the Crisis Club Derby as Graham Potter's side make the trip to Anfield to take on Liverpool!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

***

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Winning football matches is overrated, right?

Matt Davies-Adams has got Sam Parkin and Simon Johnson along for the ride to try and sum up the 2-1 defeat at Craven Cottage. The result leaves Graham Potter's side sitting 10th in the Premier League table - having won only twice in 10 matches in all competitions. There's shambolic defending, another injury - and a red card for what seemed like the only bright spark in weeks...

Next up - Crystal Palace make the visit to Stamford Bridge - who themselves have won just one of their last six and sit three points behind Chelsea in the table. We preview that game and try and muster some positivity about the chances of picking up a desperately needed three points.

Far more positivity for the women's team - who get their WSL campaign back underway this weekend with the small matter of a trip to the Emirates to take on fierce rivals Arsenal. Jessy Parker-Humphreys helps us look ahead.

Plus we've got an obligatory quiz - with some tools downed along the way...

We'll be back on Monday to *hopefully* bring some good news after another week to forget for CFC.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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It's been a 2023 to forget so far...

Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to pick the bones from the dismal 4-0 defeat at Manchester City in the third round of the FA Cup. We field some of your questions/ rants - and look at what the future could hold for this team under Graham Potter - and the direction of the club going forward.

Away from the game - we touch on the latest transfer news - with the deals for David Datro Fofana, Benoît Badiashile and Andrey Santos all signed, sealed and delivered.

Then - there's another Thursday night to look ahead to with a tricky trip to Fulham to...look forward to?!!

We'll be back on Friday to reflect on that game down by the river - and preview the visit of Crystal Palace.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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A Chelsea legend gone too soon...

Sam Parkin and Jessy Parker Humphreys join Matt Davies-Adams to pay their tributes to Gianluca Vialli - who has died at the age of 58. We get Sam's memories from Cobham, discuss his lasting legacy at the club and salute the man, the player, and the manager.

Back on the pitch - we round up the 1-0 defeat to Manchester City - which despite Simon's downbeat voice note has got our panel taking the positives... apart from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang!

There's not long to wait for another showdown with Pep's men - as the Blues make the trip up to the Etihad in the third round of the FA Cup.

We take a quick look ahead to that game and do a quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to round up that tie - and preview Thursday's trip to Fulham.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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The positivity was fun while it lasted hey...

Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the MDA derby as the spoils were shared between Nottingham Forest and Chelsea - and it was Graham Potter's side who were lucky to escape from the City Ground with a point.

We've got the latest transfer news, rumours and potential ins and outs with the window now officially open. Are Chelsea really willing to break the bank for Enzo Fernández? Is David Datro Fofana going to slot straight in with the first team? Didn’t the spend nearly £80 million on a left-sided centre back already this season?!

Then, we look ahead to the slightly ominous visit of Manchester City to Stamford Bridge on Thursday night.

We'll be back on Friday to look back on that match and look ahead of Sunday's FA Cup tie...with Manchester City!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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We've waited since the 16th of October...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Dom Fifield and Jessy Parker-Humphreys in tow as Chelsea finally got back to winning ways in the Premier League thanks to a 2-0 victory over Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.

Mason Mount shines on his 150th start, there's promise from Kai Havertz - but another injury worry for Reece James dampens the mood on a rainy evening in SW6.

Elsewhere, we touch upon the news that Bethany England could be leaving Chelsea Women for Tottenham - and round up the impressive victory over PSG in the Champions League.

Next up for Graham Potter's side, a trip to the City Ground for the MDA Derby! We look ahead to that game on New Year's Day with the help of a little quizzing...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that game and look ahead to the visit of Manchester City.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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And just like that, Chelsea are nearly back...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson alongside him as the Blues prepare to get back to action in the Premier League following the World Cup break.

We start with the sad news of Armando Broja's serious injury - and what it could mean for the club in terms of signings in the January transfer window - or the promotion of youth...

After a look at what the impact of Qatar 2022 could be for the likes of Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic - we preview the visit of Bournemouth on the 27th of December - a game which is looking like a potential banana skin.

Plus - there's a round-up of home Chelsea Women have fared over the last month or so as they now enter their winter break, sitting pretty top of the WSL table.

We'll be back on December 28th to wrap up that Bournemouth game - and look ahead to the MDA derby as Graham Potter's side head to Nottingham Forest on New Year's Day...

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No, it's not just a motorway service station...

Matt Davies-Adams has got the whole SOC family alongside him to round up all things Chelsea ahead of the (welcome) World Cup break.

First up, Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey reflect on the 1-0 defeat at Newcastle - which sees the Blues sitting eighth in the Premier League table after a third straight league loss.

Our mood is lifted with the help of Jessy Parker-Humphreys to round up what's been a hugely positive campaign so far for CFCW.

Then Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin pop by to take a closer look at the World Cup and what it has in store for some of Graham Potter's side - before putting Matt and Producer Lucy to the test with a bumper quiz - with absolutely *no* helping hands given or stitch ups whatsoever...

That's all from us for the break - we'll be back on December 28th to round up the visit of Bournemouth to Stamford Bridge in hopefully much happier times!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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He was born in 2004...

Fierce quizzing rivals Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on Chelsea's departure from the League Cup after the 2-0 defeat at Manchester City. But it's not all doom and gloom - as a Simon Johnson voice note live from the Etihad at the final whistle points out - with 18-year-old Lewis Hall playing a starring role and a generally improved performance from the losses to Brighton and Arsenal.

The tough assignments continue with a trip to St. James' Park to take on a Newcastle United side flying high under Eddie Howe.

There's a round up of the other Blues news elsewhere including an impressive win for the development squad, World Cup heartache for Reece James - and a UCL showdown with Dortmund to look forward to.

And of course, Dom and Sam go head-to-head in a grudge match...

We'll be back on Monday to round up the final game ahead of the extended international break - will the full cast of SOC along to help us round off a tumultuous 2022.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Well, that was pretty grim...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the disastrous 1-0 defeat by Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.

Thankfully Chelsea Women brought some joy to the weekend courtesy of a 3-1 win at Manchester United!

Graham Potter's side could be in a world of pain *again* when they make the trip to the Etihad to face Manchester City in the League Cup. We predict our starting XI's and look ahead to the game.

We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on that game, the Champions League round of 16 draw - and look ahead to the trip to Newcastle for the Blues' final game before the World Cup break.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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With the good comes the bad...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield to look back on the 2-1 win over Zagreb in the final Champions League Group game. There was a debut and goal to remember for Denis Zakaria, late injury heartbreak for Ben Chilwell and reasons for Graham Potter to be positive ahead of a big final week of domestic action.

Next up for the Blues - table-toppers Arsenal make the short trip to Stamford Bridge on Sunday lunchtime. We look ahead to that game, weigh up the team news with the ongoing injury issues - and question whether Chelsea can still chase down the Gunners in this most unusual of seasons.

There's a round up of the news elsewhere - including a crucial fixture for the Women's team at Manchester United on Sunday - and the usual quiz hijinx...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on another busy weekend of action - and look ahead to the midweek trip to Manchester City in the League Cup.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Halloween came early for CFC...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Simon Johnson alongside him for a post-mortem following the shock 4-1 defeat at Brighton.

We try to get to the bottom of where it all went wrong, why Raheem Sterling has looked so poor, and whether there's any reason to panic.

It's Matchday 6 in the Champions League and a dead rubber against Matchday 1 foes Dinamo Zagreb. We pick our starting XI's and have everything crossed that no one gets injured!

There's a look at CFCW's 3-1 win over Aston Villa, spotlight on the academy sides - and an unexpected look at the benefits of Ayurvedic rejuvenation therapy!

We'll be back on Thursday to round up the final group game and look ahead to the visit of table-toppers Arsenal in the Premier League.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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It was never, ever in doubt...

Jessy Parker-Humphrey's and Sam Parkin are with Matt Davies-Adams for your second weekly dose of SOC as Chelsea book their place in the last 16 of the Champions League AND top Group E after a 2-1 win at RB Salzburg.

Next up for Graham Potter's side is a trip to his old stomping ground - and a meeting with Brighton at the Amex on Saturday afternoon.

There's EIGHT goals for Chelsea Women in their WUCL tie against Vllaznia, a disappointing exit from the UEFA Youth League, a quiz - and a chance to hear from Callum Hudson-Odoi, doing great things on loan at Bayer Leverkusen.

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the game against the Seagulls - and look ahead to the final UCL group game with Dinamo Zagreb in town.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Rumour has it Chelsea and Manchester United quite like draws?

Matt Davies-Adams has got Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Sam Parkin alongside him to reflect on the seemingly inevitable 1-1 scoreline at Stamford Bridge. We've got a whole lotta love for Trevoh Chalobah, concerns about Raheem Sterling's form - and find out what it's like to be hooked before HT.

It's Matchday Five in the Champions League as Graham Potter's side make the trip out to Austria to take on RB Salzburg - knowing a win will see they guaranteed a place in the last 16.

Plus - there's plenty of WSL and UWCL action to round up - following the big win out in Paris last Thursday and crucial 2-0 victory over Brighton at a sodden Broadfield Stadium on Sunday evening.

We'll be back on Thursday to look back on the UCL action - and preview Saturday's trip to Brighton in the Premier League.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Not much sting in that one...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the goalless draw with Brentford. There's bafflement over Kai Havertz, praise for the impact subs, and a word on Broja's first start - with no Sam in sight!

We've then got eyes on events at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening - with Manchester United in town for an early top four battle, with the visitors just a point behind the Blues in the table. United expert Carl Anka drops by to give us the inside steer on Erik ten Hag's side.

There's a round up of the Blues news elsewhere - including another injury blow for N'golo Kante, growing excitement around Omari Hutchinson - and a quiz to get you in the mood for Saturday's game - all as we celebrate our 200th episode of Straight Outta Cobham!

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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This is a Kepa Arrizabalaga appreciation pod...

Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Dom Fifield join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on a fifth straight win for Graham Potter's side courtesy of a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa. We chat Kepa heroics, the loss of Reece James and two long overdue goals for Mason Mount.

There's a quick turnaround with a trip to Brentford on Wednesday night - we preview that game, question whether Chelsea would ever go for a player like Ivan Toney - and give some predictions of what to expect as the hectic October schedule rumbles on.

Plus - we recap Chelsea Women's 3-1 win over Everton - and the news that Emma Hayes will be missing from the sidelines following emergency surgery.

We'll be back on Thursday to give you the lowdown on the midweek trip to the Gtech Community Stadium - and look ahead to the visit of Manchester United...

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Just a bit *too much* Big Fik Energy...

Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin are in the hot seat alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the 2-0 win over AC Milan - as Graham Potter's men surged to the top of Group E after an eventful evening at the San Siro.

The Blues are back in Premier League action on Sunday afternoon as they make the trip to Villa Park - we look ahead to that game - round up the news elsewhere...and quiz!

We'll be back on Monday to look back on the Aston Villa game - and look ahead to the midweek trip to Brentford.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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Wolves... tamed.

Liam Twomey and Jessy Parker Humphrey's are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Stamford Bridge - as Graham Potter's side capped off a week with three straight wins in style. There's love for Diego, special praise for Azpi and Gallagher - and whether Kai Havertz is *finally* really hitting his stride.

Next up - it's a trip to the San Siro as matchday four of the Champions League rolls around - and the Blues will be looking to get the better of AC Milan once again.

There's a quick 'Elsewhere in Chelsea news' - and a word on what Athletic subscribers can enjoy...

We'll be back on Thursday night to reflect on the trip to Italy - and look ahead to the trip to Aston Villa.

Produced by Lucy Oliva.

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A big step forward?

Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the big 3-0 win over AC Milan at Stamford Bridge to reinvigorate the Blues' Champions League campaign. There's praise for Aubameyang and James, fingers crossed for Fofana - and whether this is a sign of a real turning point for the squad with a chaotic month of fixtures to come.

Next up in the Premier League - Wolves and a certain Diego Costa are in town. We look ahead to that one, share some favourite Costa memories - and cap things off with a quiz...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that game - and look ahead to the trip out to Italy to take on the Rossoneri at the San Siro.

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There's nothing quite like a last minute winner...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the dramatic 2-1 win over Crystal Palace - courtesy of a last-gasp screamer from Conor Gallagher.

With the Premier League points in the bag - attention turns to the crucial visit of AC Milan in the Champions League - with three points looking vital if Graham Potter's side are to make it out of the group stages. Plus - a certain former player drops by to help us look ahead to Wednesday night!

There's a brief look at the other Blues news - and a word on the rumoured agreement to bring Christopher Nkunku to Stamford Bridge next season...

We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on that game - and look ahead to the meeting with Wolves on Saturday afternoon.

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Until the World Cup, international break...

Sam Parkin and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams as we gear up for the return of the men's domestic football.

We begin with memories of Ramires and John Obi Mikel - who both announced their retirement from the game in midweek - with iconic goals, bags of appearances and plenty of medals between them.

Chelsea Women made it two wins from three after a 3-1 victory over West Ham - Jessy Parker-Humphreys sends in their post-match thoughts before a break in domestic play for Emma Hayes' side.

We've got a round up of how some of the Blues fared on international duty - before looking ahead to the Dom Derby as Graham Potter's side make the trip to Selhurst Park on Saturday afternoon in the long-awaited return to Premier League action.

And a quiz on the Eagles would just be far to easy wouldn't it?!

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on that match - and look ahead to the crucial visit of AC Milan in the Champions League.

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There's good genes, and then there's James genes...

Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on Chelsea Women's 2-0 win over Manchester City as they registered their first three points of the WSL season.

As the international break rumbles on for the men's team - Matt opens his mailbag to take your questions - including priorities for Potter, players who might get more of a look in, and whether Thomas Tuchel could make an audacious swoop in as England boss...

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to the Dom Derby as Chelsea make the trip to Crystal Palace as the Premier League returns!

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You've (not) got a Freund in me...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin in tow to mull over the latest Blues news.

We begin with the ongoing search for a sporting director, with target Christoph Freund seemingly committing his future to RB Salzburg. There's the latest on the search to fill the role - plus the unpleasant business surrounding the sacking of commercial director Damian Willoughby.

Chelsea Women are looking to get back on track after their shock defeat by Liverpool when they face Manchester City on Sunday in the WSL - we take a look at that game.

Plus, Matt devises a fiendish five-round quiz to beat the international break blues...to varying degrees of success!

We'll be back on Monday to round up the weekend's action and to take a look at how the men's international players have got on across the globe.

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Not quite the start we were expecting...

Jessy Parker Humphreys and Dom Fifiield join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the clash between Chelsea and Liverpool which *did* go ahead - as Emma Hayes' side were shocked courtesy of two penalties in the 2-1 defeat to begin their WSL campaign.

The international break may now be underway - but there's plenty of other Blues news to round up including the rumoured impending arrival of a new sporting director - plus a behind doors friendly, an under 21's Dom Derby - and Conor Gallagher's 'demotion' from the senior England squad.

We'll be back on Thursday to look ahead to Chelsea v Manchester City in the WSL - and check in on any other headlines.

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Not-so-all-star...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Simon Johnson are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the 1-1 draw with RB Salzburg in Graham Potter's first game in charge of the Blues. We chat team selection, xG and same old problems as the position in Group E looks increasingly precarious after picking up just one point from the opening two games.

Todd Boehly's comments at the SALT conference have caused quite a stir - with discussion of a Premier League All-Star Game and feeder clubs catching the headlines.

Plus - with no men's match to look forward to this weekend following the postponement of Sunday's visit of Liverpool - you'll have to settle for the quiz to keep you going...

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the belated start of the WSL season - plus a round up of the other Blues news as the international break kicks in.

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Graham Stephen Potter...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin to take a closer look at the arrival of the new man at the helm at Stamford Bridge. The Athletic's Brighton expert Andy Naylor give us an insight to the man himself, his coaching staff - and what he'll bring to the club. Then, we highlight five key areas that will sit top of Potter's in tray as he gets his feet under the table.

Plus, there's a look ahead to matchday two in the Champions League - with RB Salzburg in town on Wednesday evening as the Blues look to bounce back immediately from that shock defeat in Zagreb last week which saw Thomas Tuchel's time at the club come to an end.

We'll be back on Thursday to reflect on that game.

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Full title credit goes to Simon Johnson...

The Athletic's Chelsea expert Simon and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the sacking of Thomas Tuchel - and the arrival of Graham Potter.

Recorded on Thursday morning - before the appointment was officially confirmed - we take a forensic look at how the Blues reached this point, why the decision was made to part company with Tuchel - and what made Potter the right man in the eyes of the new owners.

Away from the big breaking news - there's the small matter of the start of the WSL season this weekend - with defending champs Chelsea looking to make it four straight titles. The Athletic's women's football writer Charlotte Harpur joins us to look ahead to the new campaign and what it has in store for Emma Hayes' side.

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on Saturday's match with Fulham - look ahead to the visit of RB Salzburg, and discuss the new man at the helm at Stamford Bridge...

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One normal day of Chelsea...

Thomas Tuchel has been sacked by the Blues just a month into the new season. Join Mark Chapman, David Ornstein and Liam Twomey on an emergency episode of The Athletic Football Podcast as they discuss how the club came to the decision and where they might go next.

The usual Straight Outta Cobham episode will be back later this week.

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Absolutely *nothing* to see here...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin to reflect on the incredibly controversial yet incredibly needed 2-1 win over West Ham and Stamford Bridge.

We hail super subs Ben Chilwell and Kai Havertz, question another suspect and uninspiring performance - and give our verdict on *that* VAR decision.

Then it's all eyes on the Champions League - with Thomas Tuchel's side making the trip to Croatia to face Dinamo Zagreb in matchday 1. Plus, a mega 'elsewhere in Chelsea news' segment touches on some big new contracts, more departures behind the scenes - and history-making siblings.

We'll be back on Thursday to pick the bones from that game - and look ahead to Saturday's visit just down the road to Craven Cottage.

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And just like that, the transfer window slams shut...

Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin are in the hot seat alongside Matt Davies-Adams to rejoice as the summer transfer window FINALLY ends. We round up the last minute deals - including the arrival of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang - which had looked unlikely just a couple of days earlier. There's outgoings too - with bright prospect Billy Gilmour off to Brighton - plus plenty of loan moves to round off a recording breaking window for the Blues.

We can't avoid discussing Tuesday night's 2-1 defeat at Southampton - with a classic Simon voice note from St Mary's, Thomas Tuchel questioning his side's metal and yet more misfiring up top. It's then straight onto the visit of West Ham on Saturday afternoon - as we question who'll be given their chance to make a mark in this match - and just how important the return of Reece James from illness will be.

Plus - after last week's quizzing fiasco for Mr Parkin - how will he fare against formidable opposition this time round?

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Not to be outfoxed...

Matt Davies-Adams has got all the latest Blues news covered with the help of Simon Johnson and Jessy Parker Humphreys.

We begin with the hard-fought 2-1 win over Leicester - which saw Sterling get off the mark - and Gallagher get dismissed. The Premier League action keeps coming, with a look ahead to Tuesday night's trip to Southampton and some of the key selection questions coming into the 5th game of the season.

Just days away from the transfer window slamming shut - we've got the latest on the last knockings in terms of ingoings and outgoings - plus the deals that now look like they *aren't* happening.

There's a word on Chelsea Women's 2-0 pre-season win over Spurs - and a favourable Champions League draw for Thomas Tuchel's men.

We'll be back on Friday to wrap up the summer deals, reflect on the trip to St Mary's and look ahead to the visit of West Ham...

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From the negotiating table to the pitch...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin to look ahead to the visit of Leicester City. We begin with a look at the Foxes - and the ongoing Wesley Fofana transfer saga - with the help of The Athletic's Leicester expert Rob Tanner. There's also talk of selection conundrums, the potential return of a key midfielder - and whether Thomas Tuchel will give his misfiring front three time...

With under a week of the transfer window remaining - there's a round up of the latest gossip - including the motives behind bringing in Anthony Gordon and whether the Bundesliga is the right move for Callum Hudson-Odoi.

Plus, our Thursday quiz sees one contestant driven to despair!

We'll be back on Monday to reflect on the Leicester match, look ahead to the trip to Southampton - and react to the Champions League draw...

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Back down to earth with a bang...

Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to unpick the nightmarish 3-0 defeat at Elland Road. We question Édouard Mendy's decision making, the struggles of some of the senior players - and why Chelsea's attackers seem incapable of scoring goals.

Away from the doom and gloom of the match - there's an eye on the transfer window and what business could and should still be done with the countdown on to deadline day. Is the arrival of Fofana just a matter of time? Where will the likes of Ampadu and Gilmour end up? Is a loan move for Chalobah inevitable?!

We take a look at the women's team who've been in action on their US tour - plus a mixed bag in terms of results for the men's development and under 18 sides.

The gang will be back on Thursday to look ahead to the visit of Leicester City...

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To Elland Road we go...

Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Chelsea's trip to Leeds on Sunday. The Athletic's Leeds writer Phil Hay pops along to give us the insight into Jesse Marsch's side and what the Blues can expect from their trip to Yorkshire.

We've got the latest transfer chit chat handled - with a closer look at the potential deal to bring Anthony Gordon to Stamford Bridge - plus where Callum Hudson-Odoi may end up come the end of August.

Plus - after the star-studded U21's were beaten comfortably by Fulham - there's reminiscing on appearances in the youth team gone by - and an interesting quiz with a Leeds flavour...

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The handshake that shook the world...

Matt Davies-Adams has Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin alongside him to *try* and sum up the fiery, feisty and controversy-filled 2-2 draw with Tottenham at Stamford Bridge. There's an examination of the officiating, praise for the extraordinary Reece James - and a look at what Chelsea could and should have done (within their control) to take all three points.

We have a round up of some of the lingering transfer news - with emerging links to Anthony Gordon and the ongoing pursuit of Wesley Fofana. Plus, we discuss the news that Michael Edwards has reportedly removed himself from the running to become the club's new sporting director.

We'll be back on Wednesday to look ahead to the trip to Elland Road.

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Will the unbeaten streak continue...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Jessy Parker Humphreys with the visit of rivals Tottenham just around the corner. The Athletic's Spurs correspondent Charlie Eccleshare drops in to let us know what we can expect from Antonio Conte's side after their flying start to the new season.

But we begin with a transfer round-up - with plenty of movement since we last spoke including the confirmed departure of Timo Werner, loan moves for the likes of Malang Sarr, what the future holds for Billy Gilmour - and the ongoing pursuit of Wesley Fofana.

Plus, we salute Mark Robinson's development squad who put SEVEN past Wolves in their first game of the campaign - and the SOC crew warm up for Sunday's festivities with a Tottenham-themed quiz...

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THE GOODISON HEX IS NO MORE!

Sam Parkin and Simon Johnson are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the 1-0 win over Everton - Chelsea's first triumph at Goodison Park since 2017. Not a glittering performance by any stretch of the imagination - but we take the positives from some of the new boys, bow down to the continued brilliance of Thiago Silva, and touch upon a new contract for Édouard Mendy.

There's also a comprehensive round up of the latest transfer chatter - with Cucarella in, Alonso (and potentially others) out - and Mr. Chelsea César Azpilicueta extending his stay at Stamford Bridge.

We'll be back on Wednesday with a look ahead to the small matter of Sunday's showdown with Tottenham...

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2022-23 Premier League season, here we come...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin on the eve of the brand new season.

We begin with the latest transfer news - and the surprise arrival of Carney Chukwuemeka from Aston Villa. There's discussion of that deal and some of the other key rumoured ingoings and outgoings including Cucurella, de Jong and Fofana.

There's a quick look ahead to what this campaign could hold for the Blues as a whole - before The Athletic's Everton experts Greg O'Keeffe joins us to look ahead to Saturday's trip to Goodison.

And - as ever - our weekly quiz - with a Toffee flavour - has got Sam and Simon scratching their heads...

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Take a bow, Lionesses!

Matt Davies-Adams has got Jessy Parker-Humphreys and Liam Twomey alongside him to reflect on the glory for Chelsea's England stars in the Euro 2022 final.

There's a round up of the Blues' double header in Italy - with two wins over Udinese to round off pre-season on a positive note.

And with the new season just days away - we speculate about the latest transfer rumours...

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The less said about that night in Florida the better...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Dom Fifield alongside him to take a deep-dive into the current state of the squad with the new season just a week away.

Who's integral to Thomas Tuchel's plans? Who's on borrowed time? Who is destined to be sent out on loan? We aim to answer some of your questions in this bumper episode with the transfer window kicking into high gear.

There's a closer look at some of the latest news, a round up of the Blues' exploits in the USA, a celebration of the mighty Lionesses - and some quizzing that leaves much to be desired...

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Two down, one to go...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin alongside him to round up all the latest Blues news as their pre-season tour in the USA continues.

We round up the defeat on penalties to Charlotte FC - while Simon Johnson checks in from poolside in Las Vegas to give his impressions of the west coast leg of the tour.

There's the weekly transfer gossip, a word on the club's new 'President of Business' - and a quiz which baffles and entertains in equal measure...

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Let's get this show on the road then...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea expert Liam Twomey with him to chat transfer incomings and outgoings and all the latest news with the Blues preparing to kick-off their pre-season tour in the USA.

Simon Johnson checks in from California to give us a flavour of how Thomas Tuchel's side are faring on the west coast.

Plus, Jessy Parker Humphreys is with us to round up how some of the Chelsea women are getting on in the Euros.

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The transfer rumour mill just keeps on turning...

Matt Davies-Adams has got the Athletic's Chelsea experts Dom Fifield and Simon Johnson alongside him to round up the latest potential ingoings and outgoings at Stamford Bridge.

With Raheem Sterling's move all but complete - and gossip surrounding a potential bid for one Cristiano Ronaldo - we take a closer look at the positives and negatives of some of the names being linked with Thomas Tuchel's side.

As the 2022 Women's Euros are underway - there's a word on the Blues in action - with the remarkable Fran Kirby already playing a starring role...

And the latest quiz leaves Matt (and his contestants) wanting to tear his hair out...

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Straight Outta Cobham, straight from the pub...

Matt Davies-Adams has got the pints in alongside The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield for our summer social - with rather a lot on the agenda!

We begin with the departures of Bruce Buck, Marina Granovskaia and Petr Cech - discussing their contribution to the club and football in this country - before a closer look at some of the new faces on the board.

The transfer window is in full swing - there's a spotlight on some of the potential incomings and outgoings (with lots of mentions of Barcelona!) - as well as the confirmed news of Romelu Lukaku's return to Inter Milan on loan after a 'catastrophic' season at Stamford Bridge.

And of course, it would be rude not to indulge in a pub quiz!

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In the absence of the usual SOC gang (on holiday) why not check out Monday's Athletic Football Podcast... Host Ian Irving details Chelsea's growing interest in Raheem Sterling, in the company of our Football Correspondent David Ornstein, Manchester City writer Sam Lee & Chelsea writer Simon Johnson...

We learn how Chelsea's confidence in capturing Sterling has grown, why City are open to letting Sterling leave this summer & consider whether this could see a new trend in the Premier League's top clubs selling players to domestic rivals.

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Host Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Sam Parkin and The Athletic's Liam Twomey to discuss Romelu Lukaku's increasingly likely return to Italy, interest in both Jules Kounde and Ousmane Dembele and how the new owners are likely to let Thomas Tuchel build the team he wants...

After the new Premier League fixture lists were released this morning, the guys also consider Chelsea's start to the season and how they'll be affected by the winter World Cup break.

Plus, Fran Kirby's selection for the Women's European Championships and why sponsors 'Three' will still be on Chelsea shirts next season.

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Another quiet, uneventful season for Chelsea Football Club in the bag...

Matt Davies-Adams has got the full complement of Blues experts alongside him for the final time as Dom Fifield, Liam Twomey, Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin round up the news of the approval of the takeover of the club by the Todd Boehly led consortium. Your questions are answered as we look at what this means for next season - and many seasons to come.

Back in August the team made some pretty bold - and sometimes disastrous predictions - we go through those and round up some of the other news including changes to the academy, more awards for Chelsea's Women, and success in Europe for another former Cobham kid.

There's one final quiz before we bid farewell to 2021-22 - ahead of a short break before the summer fun and game kick in!

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So long, 2021-22...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Sam Parkin and Simon Johnson alongside him for the penultimate time this season as Chelsea finished the season in...style?!...with a last-gasp 2-1 win over Watford at Stamford Bridge.

There's a full prognosis of the final Premier League game of the campaign - and the subsequent lap of honour - including farewells to Antonio Rüdiger (and how many others?), Mason Mount's player of the year award - and the very welcome return of Ben Chilwell.

We've got the usual takeover update before popping over to Italy, with Liam Twomey on assignment as AC Milan won the Serie A title for the first time in 11 years with Fikayo Tomori, Olivier Giroud and Tiémoué Bakayoko in their ranks! Liam spoke to Tomori just moments after their scudetto triumph was confirmed in style after a 3-0 win at Sassuolo.

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Almost there listener, almost there...

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to wrap up the 1-1 draw with Leicester which all but mathematically secured third spot for Thomas Tuchel's side.

But we begin with takeover talk amid reports on Monday that the deal was at risk of "falling apart" due to a lack of consensus with the club and government over the proceeds of any sale. Liam also gives an insight into his piece which focuses on Clearlake Capital.

The final match of the season is just around the corner as the Blues get ready to host the hapless Hornets at Stamford Bridge. We look ahead to the visit of Watford, and question which players could be bidding farewell to the crowd for the final time...

And of course, it wouldn't be complete without a quiz!

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At least we've got CFCW...

Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on yet another day of Wembley disappointment for Chelsea's men after the 6-5 defeat on penalties to Liverpool. Liam Twomey and Simon send in their on-the-whistle post mortem, before we take a closer look at why the Blues fell just short once again.

It wasn't all doom and gloom this weekend though - with Emma Hayes' women wrapping up the league and cup double after a 3-2 extra-time win over Manchester City. Flo Lloyd-Hughes pops in for one last time this season to analyse yet another domestic triumph - and ponder whether the Champions League could be within their grasp anytime soon...

It's back to Premier League action for Thomas Tuchel's side - with Leicester City visiting Stamford Bridge in the penultimate game of this long and punishing season. We preview that match - and round up the rest of the Blues news as the season draws to a close.

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Mason did say he likes playing at Leeds...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield for your second weekly dose of all things CFC.

We begin with the comfortable 3-0 win at Elland Road - including a Mount masterclass, another goal for a resurgent Romelu Lukaku and a horror challenge on Mateo Kovačić which could rule him out of the FA Cup final.

That's our next stop - with the game against Liverpool on Saturday just on the horizon. We look ahead to that tie, try and find some weaknesses in Jürgen Klopp's side - and discuss the all important team selection up top...are you Team Rom or Team Kai?

It's not just the men in FA Cup action - Emma Hayes' WSL champions go head to head with Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday in a rematch of the Continental Cup final which they lost. We preview that game ahead of a quiz with a difference...

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Just another quiet weekend in the life of CFC hey listener?

Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to try and round up a pretty bonkers few days on and off the field for Chelsea.

We start with the takeover - after it was confirmed in the early hours of Saturday morning that they'd agreed terms on the £4.25bn sale of the club to a consortium led by Todd Boehly.

Here's hoping Todd wasn't put off by what he saw on the pitch at Stamford Bridge - as Thomas Tuchel's side conspired to squander a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Wolves. We talk redemption for Romelu - before tactical tweaks and yet more poor defending cost the Blues yet again at home.

No such problems for the women though - who thanks to a Sam Kerr masterclass in a 4-2 victory over Manchester United at Kingsmeadow wrapped up their third straight WSL title. Flo Lloyd-Hughes joins us to round up the significance of this latest success for Emma Hayes' side.

Then it's over to Cobham, where the U23's came from behind in dramatic circumstances to beat Tottenham and secure their PL2 status on the final day.

Amid all that chaos there's also a lookahead to Wednesday evening's trip to Leeds - and what Athletic subscribers can enjoy.

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It just rumbles on and on and on and on...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to discuss another tumultuous week off the pitch for the Blues as the takeover drama continues.

On the pitch, there's the visit of Wolves on Saturday afternoon to look ahead to - as well as a quiz (of course!) as Chelsea look to get back on track after last weekend's defeat at Goodison Park,

We also look ahead to the final weekend of the WSL season, as Emma Hayes' Chelsea Women look to wrap up their third consecutive title when they host Manchester United - and highlight a defining weekend for the U23's as they fight for their lives in PL2.

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Let's just call time on this season, shall we?

Matt Davies-Adams has got Sam Parkin and Dom Fifield alongside him to reflect on another disappointing afternoon for Chelsea after a 1-0 defeat against relegation threatened 'Frank Lampard's Everton',

But we start with the takeover latest - which took various unexpected twists and turns on Friday afternoon as Todd Boelhy was confirmed as the preferred bidder and an audacious late offer arrived from British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe...

There's a round up of the rest of the Blues news - including a massive 1-0 win on the road at Birmingham for Emma Hayes' Chelsea Women with the WSL title now within touching distance - but danger for the U23's as they look to stave off relegation with a showdown against Tottenham to come.

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How it finished 1-1 we'll never know...

Matt Davies-Adams is here with your second weekly dose of Cobham - and he's got Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin alongside him to reflect on the draw at Old Trafford - trying to figure out how an utterly dominant Chelsea conspired to throw away two points.

Away from the game we take a look at the latest takeover wise - before a look ahead to Sunday afternoon's trip to Goodison Park to take on Frank Lampard's Everton.

Flo Lloyd-Hughes drops in to talk all things Chelsea Women - with a crucial 2-1 win over Spurs on Thursday night which means the WSL title is still very much in their hands with two games to play.

And it wouldn't be a Thursday without an obligatory quiz - with Toffee on the menu - and a pretty extraordinary clash of the titans...

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Consider your blushes spared, Jorginho...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to mull over the narrow 1-0 win over a depleted West Ham which ensured Chelsea stay in the drivers seat for a third place finish in the Premier League.

We pick through the bones of that game - before discussing the news that defender Antonio Rüdiger will be leaving the club at the end of the season, despite Thomas Tuchel's best efforts...

There's a trip to Old Trafford to look forward to, the takeover latest and a round up of the other Blues news - including a dramatic comeback 3-1 win for Chelsea Women, who had goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger sent off after just 33 minutes.

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It's raining goals...at the wrong end!

Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the shocking 4-2 defeat by Arsenal at Stamford Bridge - littered with individual errors and poor performances. We try and get to the bottom of why it went so wrong - and why Lukaku's season seems to be going from bad to worse.

The Blues must bounce back immediately with another London derby to contend with - and the visit of West Ham to SW6 on Sunday afternoon. There's a look ahead to that one and a Hammers related quiz to whet the appetite! 

We've got the latest on the takeover and an overview of the rest of the Blues news after another hectic week in the life of CFC.

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Chelsea REALLY like FA Cup finals...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Dom Fifield and Simon Johnson in tow to reflect on the uninspiring yet successful FA Cup semi-final clash with Crystal Palace which saw Thomas Tuchel's side progress to their third straight final thanks to a 2-0 win with the Cobham kids coming good yet again...

But we begin with the takeover latest, as it was revealed on Saturday that the Ricketts family-led group had pulled out of running to buy club.

There's a word on Chelsea Women's 2-0 victory over WSL title rivals Arsenal to set up their own FA Cup final showdown with Manchester City, before a look ahead to the visit of Arsenal for the men in the Premier League on Wednesday night.

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One more month of being Champions of Europe...

Matt Davies-Adams teams up with Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey to reflect on the dramatic and ultimately devastating night in Madrid as Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea fell just short, knocked out of the Champions League 5-4 on aggregate despite a 3-2 win on the night at the Santiago Bernabéu. There's the voice note to end all voice notes as Liam and Simon send their full on-the-whistle diagnosis after an extraordinary evening in the Spanish capital.

The Blues must pick themselves up with another trip to Wembley - and an FA Cup semi-final clash with Crystal Palace - to prepare for on Sunday. Chelsea Women are also in action as they face Arsenal in their semi - Flo Lloyd-Hughes joins the party to look ahead to that one.

There's a quick word on the takeover latest with the deadline for bids upon us - plus a FA Cup semi-themed Thursday quiz to test our esteemed panel to the max...

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More of the same on Tuesday night please...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Dom Fifield to reflect on the extraordinary 6-0 stroll at St Mary's on Saturday afternoon - which showcased everything from the sublime to the bizarre from cult hero Timo Werner.

Alvaro Romeo returns to preview Chelsea's trip to the Santiago Bernabéu as the current Champions of Europe look to turn around a 3-1 deficit and progress to the semi-finals of the Champions League. Plus, Liam Twomey drops in from a cafe Madrid to give us a flavour of the atmosphere in the Spanish capital...

There's a round up of the Blues news elsewhere - including the transfer latest and a look at how some of Chelsea's women have got on on international duty.

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Not exactly what we had in mind...

Matt Davies-Adams holds court with The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to reflect on the damaging 3-1 quarterfinal first leg defeat by Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge.

We analyse the Benzema masterclass, defensive deficiencies and questionable team selection - before wondering whether the Blues have any hope when they make the trip to the Bernabéu next week.

Thomas Tuchel's side must refocus quickly ahead of Saturday's trip to Southampton in the Premier League - there's a look ahead that one.

Elsewhere, the chaps touch base with the latest takeover talk, other Blues news - and go head-to-head as the quiz returns!

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Anyone else getting déjà vu?

Matt Davies-Adams is back with The Athletic's Chelsea experts Dom Fifield and Simon Johnson alongside him to talk though all the latest on and off the pitch antics.

We begin with the latest takeover news amid protests against the Ricketts family at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Attention then turns to the shock defeat by Brentford, with striking similarities to last season's horror show against West Brom...

There's then the small matter of a Champions League quarterfinal first leg to look forward to - with Real Madrid back in the capital for a rematch. Spanish football expert Alvaro Romeo gives an insight into what to expect from the La Liga leaders ahead of Wednesday night's game.

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The run in starts here...

Liam Twomey is joined by Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin with your second weekly dose of Blues news.

We begin as ever with the latest on the takeover - including a profile of Todd Boehly and a look at how the fortunes of American sports franchises may translate given those in the mix to own the club.

Attention then turns to Saturday's Premier League action - with Chelsea welcoming fellow West Londoners Brentford to Stamford Bridge - with the added threat of Christian Eriksen.

There's a preview of that game, plus a round up of the international break action as Edouard Mendy shines once again - and a word on Chelsea Women's latest WSL tie with the finish line in sight.

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The Blues news just keeps on coming...

Liam Twomey is the hot seat with Simon Johnson alongside him to round up where we stand on the takeover of CFC.

The chaps answer some of your questions surrounding the future of the club, before shining a spotlight on how some of the Blues got on on their travels with very mixed fortunes!

There's a word on the 9-0 romp for Emma Hayes' women as they went top of the table with victory over Leicester - plus a look at what they've got in store for Athletic readers to look forward to this week.

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It might be the international break, but there's never a dull day for CFC...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin alongside him to round up the latest with the takeover of the club as we wait for news of new owners - plus the latest on the updated ticketing guidance after the UK government made alterations to the club's special licence.

Friend of the show Flo Lloyd-Hughes is in the house to bring us up to speed with how the women's team has fared through all the uncertainty - as Wednesday night's WSL game was called off at late notice due to a covid outbreak amongst the Spurs squad.

There's a round up of how some of the international Blues are getting on - and of course, a Thursday quiz to keep you going through this Premier League-free fortnight...

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Well, the Blues quite like an FA Cup run...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on another busy weekend in the life of CFC.

We begin with the latest on the takeover after bids were formally submitted on Friday - with a word on the 'True Blues' consortium which has backing from a certain John Terry...

On the pitch it was triumph on Teesside as Thomas Tuchel's men comfortably cruised through to the semi-finals of the FA Cup after 2-0 win over Middlesbrough, setting up a date at Wembley with Crystal Palace.

Chelsea Women also booked their place in the final four after an emphatic 5-0 win over Birmingham.

There's a round-up of all the Blues news, a look ahead to the Champions League showdown with Real Madrid following Friday's draw, plus a special nod to a former player who's quickly becoming a cult hero over in Italy...

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Très bien on the pitch, not so bien off it...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin along for the ride to round up the latest Blues news.

We start with a closer look at the potential new owners of the club as Friday's deadline for bidders looms - and the sticky situation surrounding sponsorship continues...

There's reflections on the 2-1 win over Lille which sealed progression to the quarterfinals of the Champions League thanks to a 4-1 aggregate success, plus a look ahead to Saturday's FA Cup trip to Boro - and the behind closed doors fiasco which prompted yet more ridicule.

Most importantly, the Thursday quiz makes a triumphant return - but who'll come out on top?

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King Kai strikes again...

Simon Johnson and Dom Fifield are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the victory over Newcastle at Stamford Bridge. We also hear from The Athletic's George Caulkin, who was joined by our very own Liam Twomey to soak up the atmosphere at a game which was largely overshadowed by greater geo-political issues.

There's a round up of the latest news off the pitch - including the pre-match interview that technical director Petr Cech gave - and where we stand on potential takeovers with Nick Candy continuing to be vocal about his desire to become new owner.

On Wednesday night Chelsea are back in Champions League action - taking a 2-0 advantage into their round of 16 second leg tie with Lille. We look ahead to that game and touch upon the other Blues news - which features a focus on the state of the academy.

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The good news just keeps on coming for Chelsea Football Club...

Matt Davies-Adams has got a full complement of The Athletic's Blues experts alongside him once more as Simon Johnson, Liam Twomey and Dom Fifield try and unpick the latest twist in a tumultuous fortnight for the Blues.

With the British government imposing sanctions on Roman Abramovich as part of its response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine - but Chelsea granted a 'special license' to allow the club to keep operating - we try and get to the crux of what this means going forward.

There's a round up of events on the pitch - and in the stands - at Carrow Road, a look ahead to what the future holds - and a word for the people this news will hit hardest within the club.

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Sorry, Jordan North...

Matt Davies-Adams has Sam Parkin and Dom Fifield alongside him to get the lowdown on the 4-0 win over Burnley at Turf Moor - with special praise for 'Reecey' James and Kai Havertz.

The Blues are in action in the Premier League again on Thursday night as they travel to bottom of the table Norwich City - we look ahead to that game - and ponder whether Romelu Lukaku might get some gametime...

Plus, there's discussion of the latest news surrounding the sale of the club - and disappointment for Chelsea Women as they come unstuck in a 3-1 defeat by Manchester City in the Conti Cup final at Plough Lane.

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We were all meant to be enjoying the magic of the cup at Kenilworth Road...

Owner Roman Abramovich has confirmed he's put Chelsea up for sale - and written off the £1.5 billion of loans he's made to the club.

Matt Davies-Adams has got The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson, Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey alongside him for a full debrief as we reflect on the news that broke less than an hour before Thomas Tuchel's side faced Luton Town.

Adam Crafton has been at the centre of the story for The Athletic and joins the chaps to detail how we reached this point after a tumultuous week, what the future could hold for the club after 19 years under Abramovich - and rumoured candidates to purchase the Blues.

On the pitch we try and focus on the 3-2 win over the Hatters, look ahead to Turf Moor on Saturday - and hear from Pernille Harder as Chelsea Women look to defend their Conti Cup title against Man City.

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A pretty seismic couple of days by all accounts...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on events on and off the pitch following news of owner Roman Abramovich's intention to give the 'stewardship and care' of the club over to the trustees of Chelsea's charitable foundation.

We try and get to the bottom of what this means for the club, why the announcement was made and what the future could hold - before turning our attention to the extraordinary League Cup final, with penalty specialist Kepa Arrizabalaga missing the decisive spot kick as Liverpool won 11-10 on penalties after an enthralling 0-0 draw at Wembley.

There's a look ahead to Wednesday night's trip to Luton, a round up of the other Blues news - including a crushing 7-0 win for Chelsea women on their quest to retain the FA Cup - and a look at what's on the agenda for the chaps this week...

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That'll do nicely...

Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin join Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the 2-0 win over Lille in the Champions League round of 16 first leg at Stamford Bridge. Perhaps unsurprisingly, much of the conversation revolves around one player who wasn't on the pitch...

Next stop - Wembley - as Thomas Tuchel's side gear up for a League Cup Final showdown with Liverpool. We look ahead to that game and get the inside scoop on Jürgen Klopp's Reds with the help of The Athletic's Liverpool writer Caoimhe O'Neill.

And it wouldn't be a Thursday if there wasn't a quiz...

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Seven touches you say?

Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the narrow 1-0 win over Crystal Palace courtesy of a last-minute winner from Hakim Ziyech.

The chaps take a closer look at another frustrating afternoon for an isolated Romelu Lukaku, interesting team selection and a general pity party for the disjointed attacking force.

Focus then turns to the return of the Champions League - as Thomas Tuchel's side continue their title defence in the round of 16 first leg tie against Lille on Tuesday night.

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It's the Dom Derby!

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Simon Johnson and Dom Fifield to look ahead to Saturday's trip to Selhurst Park as Chelsea get back to league action against Crystal Palace.

With loanee Conor Gallagher ineligible to face his parent club this weekend, we take the opportunity to have a look at how some of the other loan army are getting on.

And the Thursday quiz is back with a bang with the pressure on Dom to perform...

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We've won it all...

Matt Davies-Adams has Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin alongside him to bask in the glory of the Club World Cup triumph courtesy of an 117th-minute penalty from Kai Havertz.

There's an on the whistle report from our man on the ground Simon Johnson - plus a closer look at the legend of Dave, the significance of this final piece of silverware in the cabinet - and whether Romelu Lukaku has turned a corner...

Back on home soil, Flo Lloyd Hughes is with us to reflect on the goalless draw between Chelsea and Arsenal in the WSL on Friday night - and what it means for the remainder of the season.

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It's the result that counts...

Liam Twomey is in the hot seat with the help of Simon Johnson - dialing in live from Abu Dhabi - to reflect on the 1-0 victory over Al-Hilal which books Chelsea's place in the Club World Cup final.

There's a spotlight on Romelu Lukaku, the starting keeper conundrum - and why Palmeiras could be considered favourites going into Saturday's showdown.

Liam & Simon answer your questions, wrap up the other Blues news - and tease ahead to the small matter of Chelsea v Arsenal in the WSL on Friday night.

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Well they made hard work of that...

Sam Parkin and Dom Fifield join Matt Davies-Adams to wrap up the extra time FA Cup victory over Plymouth Argyle - which sets up a trip to Luton Town in the fifth round.

Flo Lloyd-Hughes drops in to discuss the MASSIVE win for Chelsea women as Emma Hayes' side move just two points behind WSL leaders Arsenal - with a game in hand - after a crucial 1-0 victory over Manchester City.

There's time to salute Edouard Mendy, look ahead to the Club World Cup - and preview some of what the chaps are working on for The Athletic this week.

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It's awards season after all...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin alongside him to talk all things Chelsea as we prepare for the return to action for Thomas Tuchel's side.

We start at Kingsmeadow though, where Emma Hayes' women maintained their challenge for a third successive Continental Cup title with a 3-1 win over Manchester United to book their spot in March's final.

Then attention turns to the men's FA Cup - with Chelsea welcoming League One Plymouth Argyle to Stamford Bridge on Saturday. We look ahead to that game - with a special word on the return of Jordan Houghton - then send Simon on his travels as he prepares to head to Abu Dhabi to follow the Blues' fortunes in the FIFA Club World Cup.

And as is tradition - the Thursday quiz goes all FA Cup fourth round on us...

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How's THAT for a comeback?!

Matt Davies-Adams has got Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey alongside him to talk all things Chelsea.

We start with the #scenes in the FA Youth Cup as Chelsea's U18's fought back from 3-0 down to beat Liverpool 4-3. Our very own Sam Parkin was on co-commentary duty and joins us to reflect on the remarkable victory - while Chelsea women's FA Cup defence is on track after a 3-1 win at Aston Villa.

We answer your questions - take a look at what's been a quiet transfer window so far - and a word on what the chaps are working on for The Athletic this week.

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A year sure does fly by when you're (mostly) having fun...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Dom Fifield and Sam Parkin alongside him to pass the time as the Premier League's winter break kicks in.

There's no stopping Chelsea's women - who picked up an important 2-0 win over West Ham on Wednesday night to cut the gap to Arsenal at the top of the WSL table to just a point. Flo Lloyd Hughes joins us to reflect on that result and how the season is shaping up as we enter the business end of the 2021-22 campaign.

With Thomas Tuchel ringing in his one year anniversary at Stamford Bridge, we take a closer look at his time in charge - and what the future holds for his predecessor Frank Lampard.

And of course - it's Thursday, which can only mean one thing...QUIZ!!

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Thank you Tottenham, the pleasure has been all ours...

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey alongside him to deliver your Monday dose of Blues news.

There's a round up of the third victory over Spurs in the space of just 19 days - with a closer look at THAT Ziyech strike, the emergence of Malang Sarr and whether top four is all but guaranteed.

With a rare midweek without any action - there's a round up of the rest of the Chelsea headlines - including a frustrating 0-0 draw for Emma Hayes' side at Brighton.

And with the January transfer window coming to a close - we check in on any potential deals to be done in the last week of the month - and some * slightly less realistic* dream incomings...

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Ah, more dropped points...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Dom Fifield and Simon Johnson are with Matt Davies-Adams to dissect (another) frustrating evening for the Blues in the 1-1 draw with Brighton.

It's then time to focus on Chelsea v Tottenham 3.0 with Thomas Tuchel's side facing Antonio Conte's Spurs for the third and final time this month...

The Athletic's Tottenham correspondent Charlie Eccleshare joins us to look ahead to that game.

There's the other Blues news, a Thursday quiz - and a focus on the future of Armando Broja and some of the club's other prized assets...

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So long title race...

Matt Davies-Adams has Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin alongside him to look back on the 1-0 defeat by Manchester City at the Etihad which leaves Thomas Tuchel's side 3rd in the Premier League table and 13 points behind Pep Guardiola's side.

There's an examination of the ongoing attacking issues, team selection dilemmas and whether they're now looking over their shoulder in the top four race. 

The Blues must bounce back immediately as they travel to Brighton on Tuesday night...

We look ahead to that game and round up the other Blues news - including the departure of Lewis Baker after 17 years at the club.

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Thomas Tuchel just loves a final...

Sam Parkin and Dom Fifield join Matt Davies-Adams to look back on Wednesday night's 1-0 victory at Tottenham - meaning Chelsea cruise to Wembley thanks to a 3-0 aggregate win over sorry Spurs - despite the officials best efforts...

No time to enjoy that success though - as the Blues prepare for a must-win Premier League tie at Manchester City on Saturday.

BBC Radio Manchester's City commentator Mike Minay gives us the lowdown on the Citizens and what to expect at the Etihad.

And as ever, there's a Thursday quiz to get everyone in the mood...

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How about that for a debut?

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the 5-1 FA Cup third round victory over Chesterfield - setting up the visit of Plymouth Argyle.

The chaps talk man of the match Lewis Hall, important goals for Lukaku and Werner and what the future holds for Lewis Baker - after just his second appearance for the club in eight years.

Focus then switches to the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final - with the Blues in the driver's seat for a spot at Wembley after last week's 2-0 first leg win over Spurs.

We look ahead to Wednesday evening's trip to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium - and go behind enemy lines to hear how the Tottenham contingent from The View From The Lane are feeling ahead of this one...

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Making Tottenham suffer even more...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin to reflect on the comprehensive 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final first leg win over Spurs at Stamford Bridge.

We discuss the emergence of Saúl, the return of Lukaku - and Kai Havertz and his poor finger.

Then attention turns to the FA Cup - with the Blues hosting National League leaders Chesterfield on Saturday evening. There's starting XI speculation - before the return of the much-loved (or loathed) Thursday quiz...

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If this is what 2022 has in store for us...

Dom Fifield and Simon Johnson are back with a bang alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the thrilling 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Stamford Bridge - and the furore around Romelu Lukaku's off the pitch antics and subsequent dropping from the squad for the biggest game of the season so far.

There's time for a quick round-up of the other festive fixtures against Aston Villa and Brighton - before a look ahead to Wednesday's Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg against Antonio Conte's Tottenham.

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The gift of a semi-final for Christmas...

To round off 2021 in style the whole Straight Outta Cobham gang is along for some festive cheer as the Blues booked their place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals - and set up a showdown with Antonio Conte's Tottenham - thanks to a 2-0 victory at Brentford.

As it's our last pod of the year, the chaps look ahead to the upcoming fixtures with Aston Villa, Brighton and Liverpool - before picking their moment of what's been a very eventful and successful calendar year.

Plus the tables are turned on Quizmaster Matt - and he and Producer Lucy go head-to-head as Dom, Liam, Simon and Sam seek revenge with a special end of year grilling.

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This could all get very messy...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Sam Parkin and Dom Fifield to look back on the goalless draw at Wolves - which wouldn't have even happened if Chelsea had had their way.

We wrap up the latest fallout in terms of Covid-19 and the potential postponement of upcoming fixtures. 

There's a brief look ahead to Wednesday's scheduled Carabao Cup quarter-final with Brentford - who themselves have seen their squad decimated by positive coronavirus tests. 

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Not a good Thursday night by all accounts...

Liam Twomey and Matt Davies-Adams mull over the frustrating 1-1 draw with Everton - with the help of a Simon Johnson match report - and question why Thomas Tuchel's side simply can't convert their chances and see out games.

It was also an evening to forget for the women's side - knocked out of the Champions League in emphatic style after a 4-0 defeat by Wolfsburg. Flo Lloyd-Hughes gives her verdict on the loss - and the struggles Emma Hayes' side have faced in the last couple of weeks.

With upcoming fixtures up in their air due to ongoing Covid-19 issues throughout football - the Athletic's Wolves reporter Tim Spiers looks ahead to Sunday's match which will *hopefully* go ahead.

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Well that was fun, wasn't it?!

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin alongside him to reflect on the Champions League draw LIVE...oh, wait.

After hijinx of the highest order - it was confirmed that Chelsea WILL face Lille in the round of 16.

Amid all the chaos there's reflections on the much needed 3-2 victory over Leeds - then it's all eyes on Everton and the return of Rafa Benítez to Stamford Bridge - with the Toffees finding themselves in a very sticky position after a miserable run of recent form.

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Oh Ozdoev...

Liam Twomey and Sam Parkin are alongside Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the 3-3 draw in Zenit which saw Chelsea pipped to the post for top spot in Group H.

BBC Radio Leeds' Adam Pope joins us for a closer look at Saturday's opponents in the Premier League as Marcelo Bielsa's men come to town.

There's a round up of the other Blues news - including a pitch invader feeling the wrath of Sam Kerr in their goalless draw with Juventus in the Champions League - and of course, the obligatory Thursday quiz.

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In Kerrby we trust...

Matt Davies-Adams is joined by Simon Johnson and Dom Fifield to reflect on mixed fortunes for the men's and women's teams this weekend.

Thomas Tuchel's Blues suffered their first away defeat of the season after being stunned 3-2 by West Ham - while it was far better news for Emma Hayes' side who crushed WSL title rivals Arsenal 3-0 to complete the 2020-21 domestic treble.

Flo Lloyd-Hughes pops in to discuss events at Wembley and what this result could mean for the rest of the season - plus a big Champions League tie against Juventus to manoeuvre in midweek.

Meanwhile, it's a long trip to Russia for the men - who wrap up their group stage campaign at Zenit.

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The luck of future champions?

Matt Davies-Adams has got Simon Johnson and Sam Parkin along for the ride to reflect on the very lucky three points picked up at Vicarage Road against Watford in the 2-1 win - looking closely at the narrative surrounding Andreas Christensen's future and the growing list injury concerns for Thomas Tuchel.

Then it's onto Saturday's Premier League trip to West Ham - where the Blues will be looking for a far better performance if they're to triumph over their London rivals.

Chelsea legend and TEN-TIME FA Cup winner Katie Chapman is with us to preview Sunday's enticing final at Wembley against fierce rivals Arsenal.

There's a word on the Ballon d'Or and FIFA Club World Cup - and last but not least, Matt tries to outfox his opponents in the latest quiz after far too much success of late...

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Curse those Stamford Bridge floodlights...

The Athletic's Chelsea experts Dom Fifield and Liam Twomey join Matt Davies-Adams to look back on the 1-1 draw with Manchester United.

We analyse the lack of attacking spark despite dominating possession and chances, what more Ruben Loftus-Cheek could do to fulfil his potential - and ponder whether Thomas Tuchel's post-match pleasantries are all they seem.

Then there's midweek Premier League action to look forward to - as the Blues get ready to travel to Vicarage Road on Wednesday night to face Watford.

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