FM16: Chelsea FC - Champions of England, We Know What We Are!

The Squad

Goalkeepers

Thibaut Courtois

Position: GK

Age: 23

No.: 13

The undisputed No. 1 keeper at the club, Courtois provides you with a world-class option between the posts. At only 23 years old he'll be your first-choice keeper for years to come, emulating the departed Petr Cech. There's not really much to go on about seeing as the only thing you'll have to worry about is finding a backup keeper who's happy with being on the bench.

Asmir Begovic

Position: GK

Age: 28

No.: 1

With Courtois and Cech as options last season, Chelsea boasted the best keeper duo in the league. After Cech departed for Arsenal in the summer, it was a priority to find a suitable keeper as a fill-in for Courtois. With the addition of Begovic Chelsea maintain having the best keeper duo in the league, as Begovic has the ability to be a starter for most Premier League clubs. At 28, he is entering his prime as a goalkeeper and provides an excellent backup. The only issue with him will be getting him enough playing time to keep him happy.

Defenders

Cesar Azpilicueta

Position: D®|D(L)

Age: 25

No.: 28

Dave, the poster child for defensive-minded fullbacks. His fantastic work rate and good defensive attributes see him seldom make mistakes and let his man past him. The fantastic part about Dave is that he's adept at playing on both sides of the pitch, so you can tailor him to your future defensive plans/purchases. At 25 his best years are still ahead of him and he should be a part of your plans for the foreseeable future.

Branislav Ivanovic

Position: D®/D©

Age: 31

No.: 2

Since joining the club in 2007/08, Ivanovic has spent most of his time here as a key member of the squad, contributing greatly to whatever success we've had. It's becoming apparent, more in real life than the game, that he's in the twilight of his career. While this may be true, he can still be considered a valuable member of the squad for the season, as he's solid defensively, able to cover at right and center back, and he's a great leader for the team and tutor for youngsters. Beyond the first season, however, he could become a liability. With that said, there's definitely a case to be made for selling him in the first window.

Kurt Zouma

Position: D©/D®

Age: 20

No.: 5

Papy Djilobodji

Position: D©/DM

Age: 26

No.: 15

We missed out on Stones and got Papy. Somewhat of a surprise signing, and not the good kind, Papy is a bit of a curious case when looking at the squad. While he's not a bad player, he's certainly not a starter or starter-in-waiting for that matter, but he is good enough to do a job in cup games and some league games against the bottom table teams. Bar you getting some incredible performances out of him, it looks like we'll all be counting down the days until the January and summer transfer windows to move him on.

John Terry

Position: D©

Age: 34

No.: 26

There's not a whole lot that needs to be said about JT that hasn't been said over the past few versions of FM. Great player, getting on a bit in age, fantastic captain, good tutor, and a club icon. You'll have to start thinking about his replacement very quickly, but there shouldn't be a shortage of options out there. Personally, I like keeping him around until the day he hangs up his boots and then try to bring him into the coaching staff.

Gary Cahill

Position: D©

Age: 29

No.: 24

Cahill has successfully deputized alongside Terry for the last few seasons, and while he'll probably never set the world on fire for you, he's a good well-rounded defender who can do a job for a couple of seasons. Having just signed a new contract in real life, you'll have to decide if you're going to do the same. With an ageing Terry and Cahill right behind him, there will be some questions that need to be answered about the defence in the near future.

Baba Rahman

Position: D(L)|WB(L)

Age: 20

No.: 6

Rahman arrived from Bundesliga side Augsburg in the summer after a season at the club. Young, quick, a hard worker, and a good tackler, he finished as top tackler in the Bundesliga last season*, averaging the second most tackles per game. However, there are some weak areas in his game currently as he could be a smarter player and his passing isn't the greatest. At just 20 years old he definitely has some room to improve and grow into a good player. The question is if he's good enough to be a starting full back for a club like Chelsea currently? I have my doubts, but like most cases it will depend on the tactics you decide to employ.

Midfielders

Nemanja Matic

Position: DM©/M©

Age: 26

No.: 21

With the way Hazard performed last season, it's hard to make a case for anyone else as the most important player in the squad, but one could certainly be made for Matic. The team seemed to live and die by his presence and performances, where it was more than just what he did, but what others were able to do because of him. A perfect physical partner to the midfield maestro role performed by Fabregas, Matic was also incredibly effective as a shield and cover for Cahill and Terry at the back. Much like last season, his stats are through the roof and there should be no reason to sell him, and at 26 years young he is just getting ready to hit his prime.

John Obi Mikel

Position: DM©/M©

Age: 28

No.: 12

The Closer. If Mikel is on the field, it's a good omen as he's typically brought on to shut up shop and see out games when we're ahead. He's made his living on doing just that over the course of his career at Stamford Bridge, especially under Mourinho. However, when looking at him in FM Mikel, it seems he could be so much more. A strong player with good mentals, a solid passing range, and good vision; he could certainly do a job for the team in Matic's absence. With that said, he'll never be an incredibly important part of the squad, and at 28 years old a case could be made to ship him out. A good player, but not irreplaceable, I'd say move him on so that some youngsters can come through.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek

Position: DM©, M©

Age: 19

No.: 36

Many supporters' hope for the next John Terry, in the homegrown sense, high hopes are held for the young midfielder. He's shown promise in his few first-team starts for the club, but he's struggled to become a regular. In FM he looks good for his age at the start, and with a great selection of tutors at the club it seems like all he'd need is a little game time and he'd develop quite nicely. However, some of us may be a bit disappointed as his potential in game probably doesn't match up with what some of us believe he can become in real life. Nonetheless, he's young, English, and homegrown. See how high you can take him!

Ramires

Position: M©/DM, M/AM®

Age: 28

No.: 7

Probably one of the trickier players to work into the squad, Ramires has been used in a variety of ways at the club. He had a promising start to his career at Chelsea, but as of late his role in the squad has somewhat diminished. A player who can never be accused of not working hard enough, what really lets him down is his ability to keep the ball. A sub-par first touch and even worse passing, he will never be the assist king in your squad, but he will always be king of harassing the opposition. Look to employ him in a role that utilizes his hard work rate and teamwork and you may see him become an important cog in your machine.

Cesc Fabregas

Position: M©/AM©, ST©

Age: 28

No.: 4

What looked to be an absolute coup last summer, the signing of Fabregas paid off immediately as he came into the side to fill a creative hole and linked up wonderfully with fellow freshman Diego Costa. However, the shine of our new Spainard started to wane as his performances dropped off in the second half of the season, which looks to have bled into his form this season. Thankfully, FM is very much separate from what happens in the game in the real world, and Fabregas, like always, looks to be a phenomenal playmaker. At 28, he's no longer a young buck, but like most great midfield maestros, his game doesn't depend on physicals. He'll be able to create chances for years to come, however, if you get a large offer for him who's to say you shouldn't take it?

Oscar

Position: AM©/M©, AM®

Age: 22

No.: 8

Flashes of brilliance; that's what Oscar has shown during his career at The Bridge. Many of us are waiting for him to turn those flashes into something a bit more consistent, and at 23 he certainly has time to do so. A well-rounded midfielder, Oscar can do a number of jobs for the squad and will probably be effective at all of them. A first choice attacking midfielder, I could also see him slotting into a more central role quite easily with a little retraining. He is another player, though, that unless holds a bit of sentimental value to you could be sold for a hefty profit. You're the manager, so the choice will be yours!

Attackers

Willian

Position: AM©/ M©, AM(RL)

Age: 25

No.:22

Much like Ramires, this bouncing head of hair never seems to stop running. One of the hardest workers in the squad, Willian is a fantastic team player. Never an outright scorer, he could certainly be beaten to a spot in the squad by someone a little more prolific, but his pace, passing, and creativity could certainly see him link up with other attackers for some great goals. 25 isn't old, but isn't young, so I would say what you choose to do with him will depend largely on your tactics.

Eden Hazard

Position: AM(L)/AM©, M(LCR)

Age: 23

No.: 10

The magical Belgian returns for another season to defend his title as the best player in England. The skill set is once again there, so he can absolutely do it, to be sure. While his form has suffered in real life, like much of the squad, it would be a tough task to get him to underperform with the way he looks in game. You keystone player, don't let him go and enjoy the ride!

Kenedy

Position: AM®/ST©, AM(L)

Age: 23

No.: 16

Another Brazilian import that looks to be one for the future, Kenedy can also contribute something early on. A decent finisher with some flair and a high ceiling for potential, there's no doubt that he will be doing damage down the flanks or up top for years to come. With a preferred left foot, he could be extremely dangerous working inside from the right. I'd say hang on to him and see how he turns out for you.

Pedro

Position: AM(RL)

Age: 27

No.: 17

A champion in every sense of the word, what hasn't this man won? A good player for a nice fee, it seems like Pedro should be a tidy bit of business for the club. The fact that he can cover both sides of the pitch is an added bonus, along with his ability to use either foot. Winning is in his DNA, so let him help you bring some trophies to Stamford Bridge!

Loic Remy

Position: ST©/AM(L)

Age: 27

No.: 18

20 goals in 40 appearances was his scoring record in the Prem before joining Chelsea last summer, and while he didn't exactly pick up where he left off, he was pretty effective in covering for Costa in his absence. With a bit of a statistical downgrade in this year's FM, it looks like he won't be usurping Costa's position in the squad as the #1 striker, but he certainly looks capable of being an effective backup again. Who knows, maybe you can turn him into a monster!

Falcao

Position: ST©

Age: 29

No.: 17

A little, no big, fall from grace story, Falcao went from an elite European striker to a familiar face on the Prem bench. I don't want to spend too much time writing on him because the overwhelming recommendation is to terminate his loan.

Diego Costa

Position: ST©

Age: 26

No.: 19

Costa came in and achieved what he was purchased for: scoring goals. In the process, he solidified his reputation as a controversial and aggravating forward. Some outside of the Chelsea circle may say he's a "dirty" player, but pay them no mind. An ultra effective player, Costa can play almost any role for you up top and still has his prime ahead of him. Blockbuster deals only!

You have a pretty dynamic squad at Chelsea, so realistically I don't think there is any formation you couldn't play. While the midfield is good, the attacking third is where the majority of the squad's talent lies where we have the ability to play some beautiful football. Terry and Cahill aren't getting any younger, so if you're going to be playing a pressing, attacking style of play Zouma may be the way to go from the start. With Fabregas and Matic in the midfield you have the potential to really control games, much like last season. Distribution shouldn't be a problem with the existing players.

Transfers

Thankfully, there aren't a whole lot of positions you have to address in the squad you inherit. The glaring issues come with the back four. You have a solid starting 4 players in the back line currently, along with Zouma who is hot on the heels of Terry and Cahill for a starting role. However, outside of the 5 players who cut it your options definitely need some strengthening. Ivanovic looks good at a glance, but with his age you can expect a quick decline, very similar to what we've seen happen so far in the 15/16 season. You are definitely in need of another central defender and a left back as well. Below, I will attempt to highlight some useful signings that can help immediately, or can be viewed as long term targets that will benefit the squad.

John Stones (Everton)

Position: D©|D®

Age: 21

Transfer Cost: £30m+

An obvious target, and a very real one at that as Chelsea are in pursuit of the defender in real life, Stones is a great candidate to replace an ageing John Terry. Young, English, and a technically gifted defender, you'll have to open up your wallet for him as Everton will be looking for £30m+ to take him away from Goodison Park. This amount can be viewed as an investment over the next decade as you'd have to look quite hard to find a better player to plug into the defence, not to mention he looks to be a perfect compliment to Zouma.

Brendan Galloway (Everton)

Position: D(CL)

Age: 19

Transfer Cost: £12.25m

Another player from the pool of talented Everton Youngsters, Galloway is a little less striking at first glance, however, at 19 years old he seems to be quite a good backup/rotation option with a view of moving him into the starting lineup. His fee is a little less eye-watering than Stones' and he provides adequate cover in central defence and left back. He's a little low in some of the key mental attributes, but that's nothing a little tutoring from Terry can't fix. Outside of that, he's a great at marking, tackling, and a pretty impressive physical specimen for being so young. The fact that he's English doesn't hurt and you'll be able to stretch your starting budget a little further with his purchase.

Lewis Cook (Leeds)

Position: M©, DM

Age: 18

Transfer Cost: £6.75-11.25m

I promise, the young and English train will stop soon. Lewis Cook is a great looking midfielder that can play a number of roles in the center of the park and comes at a relatively reasonable price. Given that Loftus-Cheek doesn't look like he has as high of a potential as is probably viewed in real life, Cook acts as a player who can slot in during cup games or less relevant matches against easier opposition to aid in his development or a backup in a pinch. If you're a manager that loves bringing in youth, then Cook is an option for you.

Luan (Gremio)

Position: AM(RLC), ST©

Age: 22

Transfer Cost: ~£7.75

One of the hot buys on this year's game so far, Luan is a jack-of-all-trades in the attacking third and possesses a skill set that backs all of his natural positions and roles up. At only about £7.75m and on cheap wages (by Chelsea standards) he's a bargain buy and seems to perform well no matter what you have him do. A potential addition to a growing Brazilian contingent, Luan seems like a no-brainer to me.

Ayoze Perez (Newcastle)

Position: ST© | AMC

Age: 21

Transfer Cost: ~£11.5-29m

A brilliant little player who can play a few different roles as a creative, attacking striker, Ayoze could also be utilized as an Inside Forward if retrained. At 21 years of age he provides an injection of youth at the striker position with Diego Costa and Remy, who are by no means old, but aren't getting any older, providing peace-of-mind for years to come. I've negotiated his fee to around £25m by myself, but when going through my director of football have gotten the initial outlay to just £11.5m (but almost certain to rise to £26.5m with add-ons). This recommendation's relevance will surely depend on what type of tactics you're running, but he looks like a great little player.

More to be added soon...

Obviously this is a work in progress, but it will eventually be the new Football Manager home of Chelsea FC. I'll try to finish it ASAP.

Really good to see this started early this year. Might even play with Chelsea on this version as I haven't done it in 2015 version.

Not buying players excluding the attempts to bring back players like Lampard and Robben should be interesting.

Thanks for starting the thread PitchPosh.

Up the Chels.

Cmon you blues! Nice start to the thread! Finally we have a new home! Ive just started my final first save as chelsea now i have abit more database knowledge!

Straight on the transfer list:

Jon Obi Mikel

Branislav Ivanovic

Thinking of also giving Kenedy and Bertrand Traore a real shot and also Ruben although Ruben doesnt seem to have the real Potential he possess in real life for me.

Really good to see this started early this year. Might even play with Chelsea on this version as I haven't done it in 2015 version.

Not buying players excluding the attempts to bring back players like Lampard and Robben should be interesting.

There's definitely enough talent/positional flexibility at the club to get by without spending, though it could be tricky if the squad get's a bad string of injuries.

Thanks for starting the thread PitchPosh.

Up the Chels.

Cheers, glad I could get it started. Going to make a big push this evening to complete it.

Cmon you blues! Nice start to the thread! Finally we have a new home! Ive just started my final first save as chelsea now i have abit more database knowledge!

Straight on the transfer list:

Jon Obi Mikel

Branislav Ivanovic

Thinking of also giving Kenedy and Bertrand Traore a real shot and also Ruben although Ruben doesnt seem to have the real Potential he possess in real life for me.

Thanks, hopefully I'll have it done here soon. In my test saves Mikel has been pretty good for me as a Deep Lying Playmaker in both MC and DMC positions, though I could definitely see selling him off. Kenedy definitely deserves some game time, while I think Traore could benefit from a loan move. He had a fantastic season for me on a Leeds save I started, being a big reason for our promotion.

On a side note, I decided to toss Willian on the transfer list for £60m as I was set with Oscar and Kenedy and Man United came in with a £50m cash offer. Really tempting, though he can be a game-changer and really make the difference for a side. N

So who are your transfer targets? I tried to get Stones so he could be replace Terry when its time but he chose Man U for less money. Tried to get Barbosa but he wanted a higher rated team, don't get that one but whatever. Got Ward Prowse and probably over paid but he's been pretty awesome actually. Also got Joel Ward to cover the left and right backs. I always seem to get Ward on every save he's a good English cover. The biggest issue i guess is trying to field enough English/Club trained players. I'm still in a search for a good Terry replacement to play next to Zouma.

IN- Ward-Prowse £29.5 -9 app ,6 goals ,4 pom, 7.28 avg rating. Play him at MC/AMC/AMR he shines at AMC though. Tutored by Cesc.

Joel Ward £12

OUT- Nobody yet...Whoever starts complaining by Jan. Mikel maybe?

Begovic most definitely complains if you don't play him (was unhappy by August [wanting first team action] in my save), although that was under AI control

Mikel (by season 2, but probably earlier) has complained about achieving everything at the club, and wants out

might be worth pursuing Laporte (35.5m release clause) if you can't get Stones

and he seems white hot, averaging around an 8 rating in the first season (likewise AI control), and seemingly making LaLiga Team Of The Week in every possible week

Begovic most definitely complains if you don't play him (was unhappy by August [wanting first team action] in my save), although that was under AI control

might be worth pursuing Laporte (35.5m release clause) if you can't get Stones

and he seems white hot, averaging around an 8 rating in the first season (likewise AI control), and seemingly making LaLiga Team Of The Week in every possible week

Yea, Begovic is already starting to complain, I'll give him a few games here and there to keep him happy.

Laporte, that's a great suggestion. I scouted him and he looks great, he's interested too. His natural fitness is kind of low. Is he injury prone? If he can avg 8 that's a great deal.

Yea, Begovic is already starting to complain, I'll give him a few games here and there to keep him happy.

Laporte, that's a great suggestion. I scouted him and he looks great, he's interested too. His natural fitness is kind of low. Is he injury prone? If he can avg 8 that's a great deal.

season 1 (under AI control at Bilbao)

38 total games, 8.05 average rating

30 of them in the league, 8.05 average

injuries: 12 days chest injury - 7 week broken collarbone (during midwinter break) - 3 days cold

on the few times I've holidayed through, Man Utd either sign him or Stones in January season 1

edit: I've talked myself into signing him... I can't look past that amazing average rating (especially under AI control) - will help out my CL tilt nicely

I'm still in a search for a good Terry replacement to play next to Zouma.

Reece Oxford, available for £1.1 million at start of game and looks to have great potential.

I'm still in a search for a good Terry replacement to play next to Zouma.

Reece Oxford, available for £1.1 million at start of game and looks to have great potential.

Reece Oxford wouldn't let me offer him a contract during the first transfer window due to the rivalry between Chelsea and West Ham.

I'm still in a search for a good Terry replacement to play next to Zouma.

Reece Oxford, available for £1.1 million at start of game and looks to have great potential.

Christensen or Kalas.

I'm still in a search for a good Terry replacement to play next to Zouma.

Reece Oxford, available for £1.1 million at start of game and looks to have great potential.

Galloway from Everton is worth a shout, though he is a little expensive at around £10.5-12m. He can also cover at left back, though, so it's kind of like buying two players.

Quick note, you are missing Papy Djilobodji from the defenders list. I know he's not much and i put him on the transfer list, but yeah

I'm still in a search for a good Terry replacement to play next to Zouma.

Reece Oxford, available for £1.1 million at start of game and looks to have great potential.

I went for Eamanuel Mammana who cost c £6m at start of game. Has good potential to be BPD going forward; will probably try Christensen as well longer term for when Cahill starts declining. Laporte looks good but costly - circa £35 min release clause on my save....he is a player I will keep an eye on though.

Well I am still in pre-season and I have landed John Stones ,Youri Tielmans and Gabriel Barbosa, Also gone for Tyler Roberts from West Brom. From the Beta saves i tried John Stones always chose Arsenal or United over chelsea so i had to make a ridiculous offer but im sure it will be worth every penny.

Quick note, you are missing Papy Djilobodji from the defenders list. I know he's not much and i put him on the transfer list, but yeah

I'll add him right now, cheers! I was using last year's page as a template and went right over him.

Evening Lads,

I didn't have much time for fm15, but I have bought fm16 and started with Chelsea as I always do

Season 1 - Review So Far

I have played 28 games so far, It's been a bit of a walk in the park if I'm honest. Not cause Chelsea have excelled, More because the challengers are well not challenging. I have 72 points with 22 wins and 6 draws so far. Closest to me is Liverpool and Man City are joint 2nd on 54 points. Man Utd and Arsenal are 9th and 10th on 38 points.

I just won the League Cup, Final was against Middlesbrough but still required a last minute goal from Remy and came from behind. 2-1 Win, The board could not care less.

Still in the Champions league, Won the first league 3-1 against Real Madrid. Struggled in the group stage with 1 win 4 draws 1 lose. I scrapped through on goal difference.

Formation wise I play the above 3 but mainly 4-2-3-1 Wide with a fluid philosophy. Board are happy with my Attacking Football but possession football is lacking. They have tried to negotiate a new contract with me three times, Each time I have tried to take out possession based football, They say no and then I reject the contract. Will let you know if I get anywhere with that. But they seem adamant.

Transfers & Summary

IN

Sergi Samper - 8.5mil - Played poorly so far, Under 7's and Board aren't happy - Days could be numbered.

Marc Bartra - 8.5mil - 100k a week contract to tempt, Regret every minute of it. Under 7's yet again. Zouma twice the centre back with Cahill - Days could be numbered

Breel Embolo - 13mil (Installments) - For the future, Loaned out to keep progress. Looks a beast - Future First Team

Luan - 7mil - Impressed so far, 19 App 6 Goals and 9 Assists, Future star I'm sure.

Eder Balanta - 3 Mil - Back up to help in defence - Not had many chances - Jury is still out

Emanuel Mammana - 4.5mil - Looks a beast, Out on loan - One for the future

Sime Vrsalijko - 12.5mil - Bought for back up to Dave and Baba, He's now first team ahead of Baba. Can play lb/rb

Leon Goretzka - Season Loan - Transfer listed at 9 Mil, Try before you buy

OUT

Bran Ivanovic - 7mil to Arsenal - Too old so wanted some money back

John Obi Mikel - 10mil to Roma - Never play him so sold

Various youth loaned out.

Disappointment of the Season so far

Oscar - Can't get him to play well, 1 Goal and 1 Assist all season, If he doesn't pick up then will be sold. I'm sure we will get a tidy fee.

Bartra - Reason previously mentioned

Surprise of the Season so far

Ramires - Currently commanding a 7.72 average and seems everywhere. Normally I sell him but kept and proved me right.

Kenedy - What a player, Both Remy and Costa were injured so played as striker and WOW!! 12 Games Played 10 Goals 5 Assists and 4 M.O.M

Finally, I sent Falcao back to Monaco before he kicked a ball, I prefer pacey strikers for this match engine and he just doesn't have it.

Will keep you posted, I'm not confident for the Champions League but fairly sure the league is mine.

I'm still in a search for a good Terry replacement to play next to Zouma.

Reece Oxford, available for £1.1 million at start of game and looks to have great potential.

I missed out on stones and got Callum Chambers instead. He looks like a solid by so far.

I missed out on stones and got Callum Chambers instead. He looks like a solid by so far.

Seems to be quite elusive. No matter what team I'm managing he decides to go with other options. Maybe that just means I'm too cheap What did Chambers set you back?

In pre season, Barkley is transfer listed so will pursue. Stones went to Man City for 45 Mil I was unwilling to match that. So bought Rugani for 28 Mil along side Zouma.

Will post tomorrow all my ins and outs.

Also just want to say this transfer market is crazy. Currently on the transfer list is:

Alexis Sanchez - 37 Mil (Wont sell to chelsea)

Mesut Ozil - 31 Mil (Same as above)

Javier Pastore - 26 Mil

Casemiro - 12 Mil

Marcos Rojo - 22 Mil (They are nuts)

Wayne Rooney - 17 Mil

Also Fellani, Navas, Ospini,

Continental football probably has a lot to do with it

I typically always find Rooney on it if ManUtd miss the CL

I dare say that that's the case for Sanchez and Ozil

Casemiro isn't good enough (star-wise) for Real Madrid, but he's a handy player as a BWM

Morning, Still need to post my update but thought I would ask something.

In Season Two and wanted to speak about the Back Four & Goalkeeper.

Gk: Thibaut Courtois

LB: Baba - Full Back - Attack - Avg: 7.72, App: 10, Assists: 9.

LCB: Rugani - Ball Playing Defender - Defend

RCB: Zouma - Limited defender - Cover

RB: Dave - Wing Back - Defend

I did have Sime Vrsaljko playing Right Back last season with Dave Left Back, But in pre season Sime told me he wanted to leave for Bayern as they are a bigger club, So just now he's benched as I couldn't find a replacement.

All I want to know is, I'm struggling to get Courtois to preform in the 7's and higher, Any advice?

Also anyone having the same success with Baba, I have never seen a left back so influential.

Would also like to say, Pedro on the right wing playing as a Raumdeuter is a BEAST!, 11 app, 15 goals, 5 assists, 8.09 average so far. First season he got 28 goals and 13 assists of 45 app.

If the defence is performing well and the keeper not saving many shots, then he will get a lower rating as he wont be doing much.

Seems to be quite elusive. No matter what team I'm managing he decides to go with other options. Maybe that just means I'm too cheap What did Chambers set you back?

Yeah he liked to go to United in a lot of my saves. He cost me 18 mill which I though was reasonable after a 35-40 mill bid for Stones.

Yeah he liked to go to United in a lot of my saves. He cost me 18 mill which I though was reasonable after a 35-40 mill bid for Stones.

Not bad at all, especially seeing as he'd be a direct replacement for what Ivanovic provides. The potential funds raised from Ivanovic's sale makes that fee even easier to swallow! I'll definitely look into him.

1st season transfer. Bank is completely empty

Will try to sell off Mikel in mid-season transfer window as his performance is very poor 6.53 rating

Returned Falcao back as well to bring down wage expenditure

So i just finished my first season and where i won the Champions League and Capital One Cup. Came 4th in Premiership after a disappointing season where we lost the plot after January.

Team

GK) Courtois

DR) Rafinha / Azpilicueta

DL) Baba / Azpilicueta

DC) Stones

DC) Zouma/Eder Alvarez Balanta

CM) Ramires / Bender

CM) Matic

AMR) Willian / Pedro

AMC) Fabregas / Oscar

AML) Hazard

ST) Costa / Barbosa

Biggest Perfomers

Hazard

Fabregas

Willian

Biggest Disappointments

Oscar

Terry

So straight after the season ended ive been offered 60mill from city for Oscar so ive taken it and ran a mile. Thought he was poor and Fabregas was 10x Better in AMC. Ive signed some free agents now mainly as backups in hindsight and they are Lavezzi ,Ben Arfa and Culli from Sociedad. Also looking at letting Terry go, Selling Begovic ,Cahill ,Bender maybe Pedro too and bringing in the younger likes of Kenedy while keeping Zouma ,Stones and Eder Alvarez Balanta as my main CB's.

Are you able to offer Terry a coaching job or does he still want to play?

Still wants to play so maybe in the future

Just had a massive transfer window selling Cuadrado ,Pedro ,Cahill ,Moses and Oscar. While bringing in Pogba and Gotze. The team im looking at playing is....

GK) Courtois /Rulli

RB) Azpilicueta / Rafinha

LB) Baba / Azpilicueta

CB) Stones / Mammama

CB) Zouma / Eder Alvarez Balanta

CM) Pogba / Matic

CM) Ramires / Bender

AMR) Willian / Ben Arfa

AMC) Gotze / Fabregas

AML) Hazard / Lavezzi

ST) Costa / Barbosa

All in all not bad

Still wants to play so maybe in the future

Just had a massive transfer window selling Cuadrado ,Pedro ,Cahill ,Moses and Oscar. While bringing in Pogba and Gotze. The team im looking at playing is....

GK) Courtois /Rulli

RB) Azpilicueta / Rafinha

LB) Baba / Azpilicueta

CB) Stones / Mammama

CB) Zouma / Eder Alvarez Balanta

CM) Pogba / Matic

CM) Ramires / Bender

AMR) Willian / Ben Arfa

AMC) Gotze / Fabregas

AML) Hazard / Lavezzi

ST) Costa / Barbosa

All in all not bad

Good on you for bringing Pogba in. I rarely splurge on big name players, but I would probably open the wallet for him.

Just experienced brilliant Champions league comeback. First leg away to Barca, lost 4-0.....

Return leg....WON 7-0.......dreams do come true...

http://community.sigames.com/showthread.php/444565-Moments-like-this-are-what-you-play-FM-for!

Just experienced brilliant Champions league comeback. First leg away to Barca, lost 4-0.....

Return leg....WON 7-0.......dreams do come true...

http://community.sigames.com/showthread.php/444565-Moments-like-this-are-what-you-play-FM-for!

Wow, what a result! I think there is something built into the Chelsea players' DNA because I have had some similar turnarounds against Barca over the years. It never gets old!

Wow, what a result! I think there is something built into the Chelsea players' DNA because I have had some similar turnarounds against Barca over the years. It never gets old!

You could well be right as Barcelona are shown as one of Chelsea's competitive rivals so maybe players are, potentially, more motivated etc against them. Maybe it's matches like this that certain player attributes/hidden attributes play particular role - big matches, ability to deal with pressure etc.

Well i play with Barca and i needed to sell Mascherano because he wanted new challenge. Chelsea was only club that was offering decent fee so i sold them to them and their fans were slightly concerned because they bought player from one of their biggest rivals.

Well i play with Barca and i needed to sell Mascherano because he wanted new challenge. Chelsea was only club that was offering decent fee so i sold them to them and their fans were slightly concerned because they bought player from one of their biggest rivals.

Yeah, I have always seen them in the rivals list, but never really thought anything about it. I always thought I got lucky or masterminded the turnaround, but it looks like there might be more to it than that!

Good on you for bringing Pogba in. I rarely splurge on big name players, but I would probably open the wallet for him.

Pogbas age made my mind up tbh Fabregas is so much more effective as a AMC and also i feel Ramires and Matic as a CM duo are way too defencive minded for my liking.

Playing a 4-3-3 with Chelsea and I just wanted to see what you guys think is Fabregas's best role for MC. I am leaning towards a DLP (Support) due to his Comes Deep to Get Ball PPM but I also think AP (attack) would be a good shout too. What do you guys think?

When I switch to 433 I play Fabregas as AP(S). I also tend to give him same role when using 4231 with Fabregas in AMC position. Have found that he tends to moan if not played regularly! Good luck.

Pogbas age made my mind up tbh Fabregas is so much more effective as a AMC and also i feel Ramires and Matic as a CM duo are way too defencive minded for my liking.

How much did you get Pogba for?

I too bought him and play him alongside Matuc with Cesc as number 10! I paid 90 Million over various payments! They wanted Ramires but when I tried to exchange the wanted 95 Mil + Ramires which made no sense!

Wonderful player, Age is perfect too! Also almost bought Koke for release fee at 42 Mill but refused to pay sign on fee and agent fee as agent wants 12 Mil alone and Koke wanted higher wage than Pogs!

How much did you get Pogba for?

I too bought him and play him alongside Matuc with Cesc as number 10! I paid 90 Million over various payments! They wanted Ramires but when I tried to exchange the wanted 95 Mil + Ramires which made no sense!

Wonderful player, Age is perfect too! Also almost bought Koke for release fee at 42 Mill but refused to pay sign on fee and agent fee as agent wants 12 Mil alone and Koke wanted higher wage than Pogs!

I went mental on pogba at 97mill 50 upfront then the rest over 12 months. Cost me ALOT but hey ho he was worth it. Gotze for 30mill was a bargain! Much Much better than Fabregas i recommend him bigtime!

Ive also started to give Christensen a shot in CB and hes a class act like a new signing. He plays the cup games and lower league games sofar but looking to develop him alongside Zouma and Stones so i have 3 top notch CB's also got Eder Balanta if i hit a crisis.

I went mental on pogba at 97mill 50 upfront then the rest over 12 months. Cost me ALOT but hey ho he was worth it. Gotze for 30mill was a bargain! Much Much better than Fabregas i recommend him bigtime!

Ive also started to give Christensen a shot in CB and hes a class act like a new signing. He plays the cup games and lower league games sofar but looking to develop him alongside Zouma and Stones so i have 3 top notch CB's also got Eder Balanta if i hit a crisis.

Yeah, Christensen looks to be a good prospect. I'll be looking to do the same with him.

I'm also tempted to use/develop Christensen; added benefit is his home grown status as I had problems in 15/16 due to new player purchases. Also need replacement for Ivanovich (did well 15/16 but days numbered.....) and tempted to give Kalas a go - good speed/bravery, + home grown......main weakness seems to be concentration - hopefully can work on that. Anyone else given Kalas a chance?

Christensen has been really solid for me sofar. Sadly i never gave Kalas a chance mainly because his starting atts and potential ability in my eyes saw me with not much to work on. I actually saw Omeruno as a better option. Im really dissapointed at Loftus Cheek on this game. Has soooo much more potential in RL he needs a huge boost.

I was curious about what roles people have been using for our attacking midfielders. I've been struggling to find a good balance between defence, playmaking, and penetration

I was curious about what roles people have been using for our attacking midfielders. I've been struggling to find a good balance between defence, playmaking, and penetration

I got some good performances out of Oscar as an Attack Midfielder - Attack, but that was in the beta. Since then I have gone to 3 central midfielders

So after an initial save where I made all the screw ups and use it as my tester save. I have started a new- hopefully long term save with Chelsea. One thing I have realised in this version of the game is the importance of overloading an area of the pitch and using match reports or just checking the team sheet of the opposition pre match, then applying instructions based on that. For example they have a weak center back on the right - play down the right and aim balls to the strong striker at near post. Tried that in last years version and didnt work very well. However, works a lot better in this years version. Will update on signing etc. as soon as pre-season is done.