FM13: Chelsea F.C – We’ve Got A Star On Our Shirts Now

[Bracken]

FM13: Chelsea F.C – We’ve Got A Star On Our Shirts Now

May 19th 2012. Munich. The night all Chelsea fans will never forget.

As Didier Drogba stepped up to take the final penalty, it seemed the moment had been written in the stars. Drogba, the man who so often through the years had carried Chelsea almost single handed, who was making his final appearance for the club before moving to China, who epitomised everything about a Chelsea team that was about to undergo a radical transition, was the man destiny had chosen to go down in history. As the ball hit the back of the net, Roman Abramovich’s dream was finally realised, the big-eared trophy was coming back to Stamford Bridge. They’d done it the hard way, but Chelsea were finally European Champions. But then came the morning after, and the questions began, where do we go from here? Will Roman remain as committed as before, now that he has achieved his quest for European glory? Will the club stick with the aging stars of the Mourinho era, or embark on a new project? Will Roberto Di Matteo remain as manager to build on his remarkable accomplishments, or will a new man be brought in? How do you top a night like Munich? Welcome to Chelsea Football Club 2012/13.

History:

Founded on 10th March 1905 in the Rising Sun Pub. John Tait Robertson, a Scottish international was the first player/manager and a squad of respected players was signed, providing a league could be found to compete in. 

The Southern League was the natural choice for the location but they were unwelcoming to these upstarts. Undaunted, Chelsea simply set their sights higher and went straight for the northern-dominated Football League. 

On May 29th 1905, the Football League AGM dramatically elected Chelsea to the Second Division. Parker again proved persuasive as Chelsea became the first club ever to make the League without having kicked a ball.

The club won promotion to the First Division in their second season, and yo-yoed between the First and Second Divisions in their early years. They reached the 1915 FA Cup Final, where they lost to Sheffield United at Old Trafford, and finished 3rd in the First Division in 1920, the club's best league campaign to that point. Chelsea attracted large crowds and had a reputation for signing big-name players, but success continued to elude the club in the inter-war years.

In 1952, former Arsenal and England centre-forward Ted Drake took charge of the club as manager, and began to modernize and revolutionise the club. A change in badge, style and personnel saw the club begin to rise in English football. Captained by Roy Bentley, the club claimed their fist ever league title in 1955, but it was to be some time before the success was repeated.

After falling in to mid-table obscurity in the late 1950’s, Ted Drake was replaced by player-coach Tommy Docherty, who made his own mark on the team, building a young and talented squad, and bringing Chelsea back into contention for honours. The club were on track for a treble, the League, FA Cup and League cup in the 1964-5 season, but the faltered at the final stages, securing only the League Cup. In three seasons the side were beaten in three major semi-finals and were FA Cup runners-up.

Doherty was replaced by Dave Sexton, who brought new glories to the club, the FA Cup in 1970 after a dramatic 2-1 win in a replay against Leeds United, and the club’s first European victory, the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, in 1971, triumphing over the great Real Madrid in another replay. The late 60’s and early 70’s will be remembered as a great period of Chelsea history, where the club established their reputation as a stylish, swaggering London giant, lead by ‘The King of Stamford Bridge’ Peter Osgood.

The late 1970’s and the 1980’s saw dramatic changes to the Club’s fortunes, suffering relegation to the second division, the loss of star players such as Ray Wilkins, and problems with hooliganism. In1982, Jen Bates acquired the club, for the princely price of £1, questions over the clubs future at Stamford Bridge plagued supporters, and club came close to dropping into the Third Division. However, manager John Neal dragged the club back into the top flight in 1983-84. While they accomplished little, and found themselves back in the second division 1988, they returned immediately and have remained in the top division of English football ever since.

The 1990’s saw a new revolution at Chelsea Football club. Firstly, the club secured their home, Stamford Bridge, after a decade of uncertainty with property developers. The arrival of stylish, accomplished foreign players such as Ruud Gullit, Gianluca Vialli and Roberto Di Matteo lead to a change in both the club’s style and fortunes. Gianfranco Zola joined the club, immediately winning the hearts of the clubs fans. Zola would eventually be regarded by many as Chelsea’s greatest ever player, the Italian magician’s class on and off the pitch will never be forgotten. As player-manager, Gullit guided the team to an FA Cup triumph in 1997, and established Chelsea as a major force in English football. In 1998, Vialli replaced Gullit in the role of player-manager, and guided the team to further successes, the League Cup and UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, both for the second time in the club’s history, and the third club’s FA Cup in 2000. Vialli also secured Chelsea’s first appearance in the UEFA Champions League, beginning a relationship with the competition that has defined Chelsea in recent years.

Claudio Ranieri replaced Vialli as manager in 2000, securing a place in the 2002 FA Cup Final where Chelsea lost to Arsenal. Ranieri brought in influential players such as Frank Lampard in midfield, and developed John Terry into the dominant force in Chelsea’s defence, eventually giving Terry the captaincy. In 2002/3, Chelsea were locked in a battle for qualification for the Champions league with Liverpool, leading to a dramatic final day encounter between the two teams that would decide their fortunes. There has been perhaps no more consequential match in Chelsea history than that game. Chelsea required only a draw to secure qualification, Liverpool required a win, and they took the lead through Sami Hyypia, but Chelsea fought back. Marcel Desailly scored the equaliser, before Danish winger Jesper Gronkjaer curled the winning goal into the bottom corner, ensuring Chelsea’s return to Europe’s top table.

Then everything changed.

Roman Abramovich took ownership of the club in 2003, and transformed the club into a financial powerhouse. Abramovich poured his own money into the club, funding transfer spending sprees that brought some of the greatest players in world to Stamford Bridge. Ranieri remained in charge for the 2003/4 season, the ‘tinkerman’ seeking to bring domestic and European glory back to West London. Aided by the arrivals of Hernan Crespo, Joe Cole, Damien Duff and others, Ranieri brought Chelsea their highest league finish in decades, finishing second only the ‘invincible’ Arsenal team. The Champions League was also a case of so close yet so far, as Chelsea crashed out in the semi-finals to Monaco, who then lost to Jose Mourinho’s Porto. Despite these successes, Ranieri was unable to hold onto his job, and newly crowned European Champion Jose Mourinho arrived. Ranieri deserves his place in Chelsea history, not only for his own achievements, but for building the foundation for the success that followed.

‘The Special One’ has left an indelible mark on the history of Chelsea football club, the squad still retaining some the stalwarts of his tenure. Mourinho brought unprecedented success to Stamford Bridge, bringing in the first league title in 50 years, then retaining the trophy very next year. He brought in players such as Drogba, Michael Essien, Ricardo Carvalho and many others. Petr Cech and Arjen Robben, both signed under Ranieri, instantly became important figures in the team, while Drogba showed why he would go down as one of Chelsea’s greatest ever strikers. Mourinho’s Chelsea were a formidable prospect for opposing teams, with a home record any club would envy, a winning mentality and an indomitable spirit. In all, Mourinho brought in two league titles, two League Cups and an FA Cup, before suddenly departing the club in 2007. Mourinho’s relationship with Abramovich had severely deteriorated, with rumours that Michael Ballack and Andriy Schevchenko had been signed against the wishes of the manager. Avram Grant, the newly appointed Director of Football stepped into the manager’s dugout once Mourinho departed, and set about surpassing his achievements.

Grant was never taken to heart by the Chelsea faithful, though he did manage to surpass Mourinho in one way. In his solitary season in charge, Grant reached Chelsea’s first every Champion’s League Final. The 2008 Champions League Final in Moscow saw Chelsea hearts broken by an English rival, as Manchester United beat the Blues on penalties. Despite reaching the final, Grant was relieved of his duties and replaced by Felipe Scolari.

Scolari’s reign was short and turbulent. Despite a positive start, results soon deteriorated, and Scolari was relieved of his post and replaced by Guus Hiddink. The Dutchman conducted himself with poise and grace during his short caretaker spell, and many wanted him to take the post full time after he secured another FA Cup triumph for Chelsea. However, Hiddink remained in his post with the Russian national team, and Carlo Ancelotti was given the reins.

The former AC Milan manager brought back some of the confidence and swagger that had disappeared since Mourinho’s departure, and in his first season secured Chelsea’s first ever League and FA Cup double., as well as becoming the first English club to score more than 100 goals in a league season since 1963. Drogba again was a central figure, alongside Lampard, Terry and Cech as the spine of the team. Sadly, Ancelottie couldn’t reproduce that form in his second season, while Fernando Torres arrived for £50m from Liverpool, a club record segning, Ancelotti never got the best out of the Spaniard. Ancelotti lost his job at the end of the season, to be replaced by another former Porto manager, Andre Villas-Boas. ‘AVB’ had worked as Mourinho’s chief scout during his time at Chelsea, and after a short but successful stint at Porto, looked to be the man to fulfil Abramovich’s ambition for attacking football. AVB however proved to be another short-term appointment, suffering a similar fate to Scolari, and losing his job in March 2012. Perhaps Boas’ most important contribution was begin to phase out the Mourinho-era starters, and bring a new, younger core, with Juan Mata arriving to add a creative cutting edge.

Enter Roberto Di Matteo, Boas’ assistant, and a former Chelsea player and club legend. Di Matteo sought to bring belief back to the club, changing the formation and the emphasis. While Chelsea’s league form stuttered, the club recovered from a 3-1 deficit to Napoli, and were making good progress in the Champions League and FA Cup. The end of the 2012/13 season brought the greatest triumphs in Chelsea history, as we gained another FA Cup and finally brought the European Cup, the Champions League trophy, to Stamford Bridge.

Basic Info

Club:

Founded: 1905

Location: West London, Borough of Fulham

Nicknames: The Blues, The Pensioners, The Chels

Owner: Roman Abramovich

Chairman: Bruce Buck

Finances: Rich

Estimated Value: £440m

League: The English Premier League

Continental Competition: UEFA Champions League, World Club Clup, UEFA Super Cup

Stadium

Name: Stamford Bridge

Built: 1876

Capacity: 41, 837

Owners: Chelsea Pitch Owners

Rivalries

Fierce:Tottenham, Millwall, Liverpool, West Ham

Other: Arsenal, QPR, Fulham, Manchester United

Honours:

Premier League/First Divison:

Winners: 1954-5, 2004-5, 2005-6, 2009-10

UEFA Champions League

Winners: 2011-12

UEFA Cup Winner’s Cup

Winners: 1970-71, 1997-98

UEFA Super Cup

Winners: 1998

FA Cup

Winners: 1969-70, 1996-7, 1999-2000, 2006-7, 2008-9, 2009-10, 2011-12

League Cup

Winners: 1964-5, 1997-8, 2004-5, 2006-7

FA Community Shield

1955, 2000, 2005, 2009

More to come

[Bracken]

The First Team Squad

Goalkeepers

Petr Cech

Undoubtedly your number one keeper, one of the best in the world and a Chelsea legend, especially after his heroics in Munich. His wages are high, but not the highest in the squad so it shouldn’t be a problem, and he’s contracted until 2016. His strengths are his handling, reflexes and kicking, his one key weakness is his one-one-ones, so keep that it mind when setting up your defence.

Recommendation: Keep him of course, he’s your number one.

Ross Turbull

Let’s be honest, he’s not great. But he’s cheap and British, two qualities that you may find outweigh his lack of real utility in matches. As backups go, he’s certainly not the best, but as a stop gap measure, he isn’t terrible and his wages don’t make him a prime target to be moved on right away, especially as his contract is expiring.

Recommendation: I’d say keep him for the last year of his contract, you won’t get much from selling him, and he doesn’t complain to much.

Hilario

Fighting Turnbull to be your immediate backup to Cech, Hilario is marginally more expensive and perhaps slightly less useful as a player. However, he does have something to offer as tutor, with good determination, and a ‘model professional’ personality. His contract is also in it’s last year

Recommendation: Again, I’d say keep him for the last year, and use him to tutor a younger keeper. He can also sometimes turn into a decent coach, form previous FM experience.

Fullbacks

Branislav Ivanovic

Technically he’s not a full back on FM, he’s a natural centre back, but in real life he’s found more action at right back than centre back, so that’s why he’s here. Strong, solid, and dependable, ‘2 goal’ has made the right back spot his own in recent years. His strength, aerial ability and tackling are his main assets, he’s not the quickest but he’s no slouch. No matter where you play Ivanovic, he won’t let you down. His wages are really low for a player of his calibre, and his contract runs until 2016.

Recommendation: Keep him, as a centre back or right back, for the wages he’s on, he’s a great option to have. From previous experience, you may have a few bids for him, but make sure you negotiate before you consider selling him, nothing less than £15m I’d say.

Cesar Azpilicueta

A new addition to the squad, Azpilicueata arrived from Marseille in the summer of 2012. He offers more in attack than Ivanovic, though loses out to the Serb on a few defensive attributes. At only 22 years old, and with potential to grow into, he could be a very important player for you in the future. He has wages of £30k, with a contract until 2017, so not too expensive and locked down for a good length of time.

Recommendation: He and Ivanovic should fill your right back needs very adequately, eventually he’ll be undisputed first choice.

Ashley Cole

Perhaps the best left back in the world, certainly the best in the country, Cole has pace, stamina, great tackling ability and a decent cross. His is outstanding in almost every way, with just his aerial ability lacking. However, there is a slight dilemma. He is in the last year of his £120k p/w contract, and at 31 years old, it’s time to make a decision on his future. He’ll want a pay rise to stay on, and his age isn’t on his side.

Recommendation: This is really a judgement call, and it’s one you’ll find in a few places as the years go by, stick with the Mourinho era stars, or move to a younger team? Personally, I think Cole has a good few years in him yet, but it’s totally your call. This is probably the last chance to sell if you want the cash, you could let to contract run out, or keep him at the club for good. Tough decision, for me, I’ll probably keep him.

Ryan Bertand

The new Ashley Cole. Bertrand is your ready-made replacement for Cole whenever you decide. He may not have huge potential, but he has really solid attributes going forward and defensively (you’ll need to work on his marking though), he’s home grown and his contract isn’t too taxing at £35k until 2017. He can also provide cover from LB to AML, so he’s a great option to have

Recommendation: Work on his marking, and if he reaches his potential, you’ll have a solid left back option for years to come.

Paulo Ferreira

A real club servant, one of the longest serving at the club, at age 33 he’s well past his peak, and his contract of £40k is a little more than perhaps he’s worth. He starts the game on the transfer list, though I’m not sure how much you’ll get for him. He does have some good attributes for a tutor, a model professional personality and 18 determination.

Recommendation: He’s not awful, if you have a full back crisis he could be useful, and he makes a good tutor. If you bring another young full back, I’d say use Paulo as a tutor, or if you’re using Ivanvoic at centre back, Paulo could be a back up at right back, But really, this should be his last season at the club.

Central Defenders

John Terry

The Captain, the leader of the team and definitely your best defender. If his real life issues don’t put you off, then he’s vital to your team. His pace is on the decline and that’s an issue, so be aware of then when setting up your team, but his technical and mental attributes more than make up for it. There is the issue of his contract, at £175k p/w until 2014, he’s one of your most expensive players, so if you’re going after the big wages, he’s a target.

Recommendation: I’d never get rid of him, if you want to keep it realistic, imagine the fan reaction, and you’ll probably want to stick with him, at least for now. In 2014, he’ll be 33 years old, so you’ll have a decision to make, but for now, for me, it’s easy, he’s one to keep.

David Luiz

Crazy he might be, but on FM, he’s pretty great. His pace is priceless when considering he’ll likely partner JT, and it helps to make up for his lack of positioning and concentration. Yes, he can be a liability, he likes to wander forward and his defensive mental attributes are a worry, but if you can improve them, he’s a great option to have. Contract is £75k p/w until 2017, so he is expensive but you hopefully won’t have to improve it for a few years.

Recommendation: Keep him, he epitomises the way Abramovich wants to play, and let’s face it, the guy’s a laugh, and you’d miss that hair if it were gone.

Gary Cahill

Like Ivanovic, he’s solid and dependable. He’s not outstanding, but he won’t let you down when called upon. And he’s English, so if you value it or need English players for the squad and CL squad, he’s a good option. The problem is his wage. On £80k p/w until 2017, he’s pretty darn expensive if you’re not going to use him as first choice.

Recommendation: Due to his recent arrival and your relative lack of other options, you’ll want to keep him for now, but if you’re keeping an eye on your wage budget, he might be a target for a transfer away in the future.

Central Midfielders

Frank Lampard

A club legend, vice captain, one of the best players to have graced the shirt, and one of our all time leading goal scorers. Lampard is getting on in years, he’s 34 and his pace and other physical attributes are going to be declining, but for now he’s still a great weapon. While in real life his role has been diminished, on FM you can keep him as one of the first names on the team sheet. If played correctly, he’s still lethal in front of goal, a great supplier for those further forward. He’s also a tremendous tutor.

Recommendation: You can’t sell Frank can you? Phase him out slowly while exploiting his tutoring potential. His contract is high at £145k p/w, but he’ll accept pay cuts in order to stay on, I wouldn’t ditch him, I would not want to face the fans reaction.

Ramires

The definition of a box-to-box midfielder. All action, a tremendous engine, he’ll run all day and he’ll run fast. Not the most technically gifted but not bad either, Ramires can be the heart and soul of your midfield. Perhaps the only real issue is where to fit him in, he’s not too defensively minded as he likes to bomb forward, but he’s not a cultured playmaker like Lampard either. He can provide good cover on the right, at defensive midfield and in more attacking positions, but finding the position that suits you best might be a challenge.

Recommendation: Definitely keep him, his wages at £55k p/w until 2017 are easily manageable and he gives you so many options. For me, he’ll be a ball winning midfielder on the right of my two central mids.

John Obi Mikel

Often maligned by Chelsea fans, Mikel is the most experienced defensive midfielder at the club. What he offers is keeping things simple, keeping the ball and winning it back. Nothing fancy, but efficient and not to be ignored. He’s either footed so that’s a bonus too. His wages are high, £75k p/w until 2014, so keep that in mind. For me, the biggest worry is his pace, he’s not fast, so depending on your style, that could be an issue.

Recommendation: If you set your team up to suit Mikel, he’ll excel as a defensive midfielder, or even an efficient deep lying playmaker, however, if you want a more all action defensive option, Ramires is your choice. If Mikel isn’t going to be the first choice, you might want to move his wages to another club.

Orial Romeu

He could be the future of your defensive midfield department. Solid all round attributes, versatile offering cover at centre back as well, and cheap, Romeu is a good squad player. His potential means he could eventually grow into being a great squad player.

Recommendation: You’d be mad to let him go, he has pretty much everything you could want in a young defensive midfielder and he could become superb.

Attacking Midfielders

Juan Mata

One of the most important players on the team. Superb in any role you give him, passing, finishing, dribbling, he’s got everything you could want from an attacking player. Equally competent in the middle or wide left, Mata will be one of your key players for years to come. At £67k p/w, he’s surprisingly cheap considering his ability.

Recommendation: Do you have to ask? Of course you’re keeping him, personally I’d play him in the centre as a Trequartista or Attacking Midfielder (Attack), but he’ll serve you well in almost any role.

Eden Hazard

One of your new arrivals, and boy, what an arrival. His directness and passing will be vital weapons, and he still has potential to grow into. He’s listed as a natural winger, but for me he’s more a central attacking midfielder. Wherever you use him, like Mata, he’ll provide world class service to the club. Unlike Mata, his wages aren’t cheap, he’s the highest paid player at the club on a whopping £185k p/w, with a contract lasting until 2017. It’s annoying, but there’s not much you can do. I’d dread to think what he’ll ask for when it needs to be renewed.

Recommendation: Develop him into an all time club legend. He’s got the ability and the potential, just use it wisely.

Oscar

Another new arrival, another fantastic attacking asset. Less of an driving/dribbling player than Mata and Hazard, Oscar is your advanced playmaker, a cultured right foot and a vision for killer balls. Oscar is the pivot around which you attacking play should flow, think of him as Xavi, to Mata/Hazard’s Messi. Less developed than the other two, but just as much potential, if you find a way to work all three into the team, you’ll have an incredible attacking force.

Recommendation: His skills are somewhat wasted on the wings, keep him central either in an advanced or deeper role, and watch him flourish. His wages of £40k p/w until 2017 mean you shouldn’t have any worries here, you’d be insane to think about letting him go any time soon.

Marko Marin

Although he starts the game injured, Marin will figure prominently in your team across the season. Think of him as a younger, faster, better version of Solomon Kalou, with good dribbling skills but a not the greatest finish. He has a little potential still to burn, and while he’s unlike to surpass Oscar, Hazard or Mata, he’ll be a valuable rotation option.

Recommendation: A natural winger but capable in a number of positions, his wages a fine, a very good rotation option, who could be sold for a great profit in the future.

Victor Moses

Like Marin, he lacks the refined qualities of the Holy Trio of Mata, Hazard and Oscar, but he does offer a physical presence, pace, and dribbling skills. With good potential to burn, and having been trained in the UK for three years, he’s another good solid rotation option.

Recommendation: Solid wages (£30k p/w until 2017), a natural at AMR/L/C, his versatility and talents will be a valuable tool, and again can be sold for a profit in the future.

Florent Malouda

Exiled to the reserves and forgotten by many, Malouda hasn’t lost his ability, on FM at least. A winger who can offer options in the middle as well, he’s similar in many ways to Oscar, with his crossing and passing ability but not quite on the same level of dribbling as Mata and Hazard. His wages are huge for someone who will likely be a backup at best (£100k p/w for one more year), if you want to keep him, it’s worth trying to negotiate those down.

Recommendation: At 31 years old, on huge wages, and with less to offer than his younger counterparts, it’s probably time Malouda was moved on, but hopefully with a little more dignity than we’ve managed in real life.

Strikers

Fernando Torres

Oh Fernando, where did it go wrong? Once one of the most feared strikers in the world, now a shadow of his former self. Still possessing the flashes of his old self, Torres’ attributes have been toned down on the latest FM. He can still lead the line, and I’m sure his potential to reach his former ability is still there, but it would be a struggle. However, with all the attacking ability now supplying him, this is the best chance he’ll ever have to recapture that form. His problems with injuries seem behind him, can he now find the form and become one of the best in the world again?

Recommendation: Maybe the biggest judgement call you have to make, and one that will define the everyone’s saves, at least at the beginning, do you stick with Torres or make a change? It’s totally up to you, he can be sold for around his value if you wish, or maybe you can bring out the best in him once more. The decision is yours.

Daniel Sturridge

Two main characteristics underlie Danny’s game, pace and selfishness. His directness and pace will cause problems to any defence, but he often makes the wrong decision, going for goal when he should pass. Frustrating at times, brilliant at others, he offers a very different option to Torres, and he’s British, another important quality.

Recommendation: A good solid option at front (where cover is really short) and offering an option on the wings, he’s good to keep around. The problem is his wage, he’s already on £60k and only with one year left. He’ll want a raise, so you’ll have to make the call as to whether he’ll eventually develop into a player that’s worth £60k+ or if you want a cheaper option

Romelu Lukaku – on Loan

At West Bromwich Albion for the year gaining valuable experience from a former Chelsea favourite, Lukaku is raw, but with great potential. Power and strength are his greatest assets, while he needs to work on the technical side of his game. Definitely one for the future who could fill the hole left by Didier Drogba.

Recommendation: The big call here is whether to recall him. You are light on cover up front, and he may benefit from training at the club, but he really needs games. If you can guarantee you’ll give him matches, let him remain at WBA and fold him into your side next season.

The Future

The Reserves

Thibaut Courtois – On Loan

The future of Chelsea between the sticks. A very promising young keeper, who proved he has what it takes to play in a top league during the 2011/12 season with Atletico Madrid. Good solid stats and real potential, his communication needs to be worked on, but he looks like a future number one for a top team, make sure it’s Chelsea. When he gets back, you won’t want to loan him out again.

Jamal Blackman

A youngster who has decent potential, not outstanding, but could become a good backup. He’s young, English and homegrown, if you can develop him well, he’ll probably never challenge Cech or Courtois, but could be a useful second or third choice keeper. A loan move could do him some good, or have him tutored by Hilario or Cech, no need to sell him right away, but once developed if he’s not up to it, you’ll know what to do.

Todd Kane

Captain of the U21’s, Kane lacks some vital defensive stats but has a great long shot and good pace and stamina. His potential (2 stars) isn’t great, but if you’re going for home grown players, he’s one you should have a go at developing. I doubt he’ll ever make it into the first team on the FM, but if you put real effort in, you might prove me wrong. Perhaps a loan move to improve him a little, but I’d think he’ll be sold soon enough.

Sam Hutchinson – On loan

Hutchinson has had a remarkable career, having been forced to retire due to injury, he’s worked his way back and earned a contract at Chelsea again. He’s on loan at Nottingham Forest for the season, a loan that can only help. He doesn’t have great potential (less than Kane on mine at just 1.5 stars) but has better attributes. For sentimental reasons, I’ll be trying to keep him, or at least ensure he has a good solid career.

Nathaniel Chalobah on Loan

Great physically, with some work do to mentally and technically. On loan at Watford for the season (under the tutelage of the great Gianfranco Zola), hopefully the first team football will do him so good. With a bit of tutoring and experience, he has the potential to take a place in the first team squad, whether that’s as first choice or rotation will depend entirely on his development.

Jeffrey Bruma on Loan

He’s been out on loan for some time now, but Bruma could still play a big part in Chelsea’s future. His concentration and positioning are worrying, he might be better off retrained to play further forward than his natural centre back position, nevertheless, he has strong potential, and developed well could end up as a useful option. Even if you choose not to keep him, he might turn over a decent profit.

Josh McEachran on Loan

After his loan move to Swansea last year didn’t work out, his Middlesborough adventure could prove to be the place where Josh proves he has the ability to take over from Frank Lampard as Chelsea’s English midfield lynchpin. A great eye for a pass, good first touch and composure on the ball mean he makes a great Deep Lying Playmaker. Definitely one to keep your eye on.

Kevin De Bruyne on Loan

On loan in the Bundesliga with Werder Bremen for the season, De Bruyne should definitely find his way into your squad when he returns. A natural central midfielder who can also play further forward, he can easily hold his own in the top flight. A little light weight in the physical department, but more than makes up for it when exceptional technical skills. He's another Belgian that will definitely play a part in Chelsea's future.

Lucas Piazon

Another Brazilian in the Chelsea setup, Piazon is a natural left winger but can play across the attacking midfield positions or up front. Signed for £7m, he’s yet to make his breakthrough into the first team, but after playing well in the pre-season, this could be his year. As we’re slightly lacking in cover for our three attacking midfielders, he might be someone you’ll want to involve in cup games. Good potential, hopefully a future star.

The Under 18s

Bertrand Traore

Already with 3 international caps for Burkina Faso, Traore has immense potential according to my coaches, a natural left winger who can also play on the right, he has pace and some dribbling ability. Only 16 years old and nowhere near ready for the first team, but good tutoring and smart development could make him into a star.

Islam Feruz

Snatched away from Celtic, Feruz is a young Scottish striker, with great acceleration, pace and finishing, he has the mold to be a perfect poacher. Definitely someone who, if tutored correctly, could play a role in the future.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek

A young midfielder, Loftus-Cheek has average attributes, a good long shot and stamina, and someone who could be molded into any role in central midfield. He’s someone who could make an interesting project, focus him in anyway you choose and see what kind of player you can develop.

[Bracken]

Tactics

My Suggested Formation

There are a few ways you could modify this obviously, but some form of 4-2-3-1 would seem to be the most logical formation with the players we’ve got. I chose to go with three narrow AMCs and two CMs. Firstly, I chose this because, in my view, Oscar, Mata and Hazard are all naturally central players, though Hazard on FM is listed as a natural winger, and I don’t feel we have a true, natural right winger in the squad. I’ve also found that as long as the AMCL and AMCR are set to move into channels that the team doesn’t suffer from a lack of width. I also feel that the full backs we have can provide adequate width, while the AMC’s are superb at finding space either wide or centrally. I chose two CMs as neither Ramires nor Lampard are naturally defensive players, and as those two will by my first choice pairing, I wanted to play to their strengths. The key to this formation is ensuring that both have slightly more defensive mentalities, ensuring the gap between the back four and the midfield two isn’t too excessive , but that at least one of the CMs can join the forward players during attacking phases of play. This formation also lends itself to the short, fluid passing game I intend to institute.

My Suggested Team Instructions

A few key things. Due to Terry’s lack of pace, a high defensive line can be suicidal (as proved by AVB’s short term in charge) so playing slightly deeper will ensure you leave fewer gaps in behind, and hopefully the pace of Luiz and Cahill can make up for any lapses on JT’s part. The width I’m using is something of an experiment, I want to ensure that my AMC’s do use the full width of the pitch, and the full backs play their part in attacking moves, so the width has to be decent, but I’ll keep experimenting with this until I get it just right. The tempo needs to exploit the pace of our team, but also ensure that we take our time to pick the right passes in the final third. I’m looking for something between the pace and directness of the late 1990’s Man United, with the probing precision of the current Barcelona team (I know, kind of a dream, but it would be the perfect blend IMO). Finally, I set the team to counter attack, we’ve got incredible pace running through the team, we should make the most of that.

My Suggested Personal Instructions

I’m obviously not going to post every individual player, but just a few overall tips. The wide-play of the AMCs will be crucial to the success of the team, so I’ll keep an eye on that. The instructions for two central midfielders will provide the balance between the defence and attack, so make sure they aren’t too gung ho, in this formation, caution is preferable. The striker, in my mind, will be a Van Nistelrooy type role, someone to just put the ball in the net, to finish the opportunities created by the AMCs. Finally, I know long shots have annoyed a large number of people on the last few FMs, in my opinion only the central AMC and one of the two CMs should be encouraged to take long shots sometimes, the others should be set to rarely.

These are of course just my suggestions, you’re more than welcome to ignore all of them, but I hope they’re useful to a couple of people.

Transfers

This is perhaps the first FM for a while that when most people take over Chelsea, they won’t feel the need for drastic changes straight away. You’re well stocked almost everywhere, so I have just a few suggestions that people might want to consider, mainly for backup rather than as first choice.

Striker:

This is probably the one area where many, if not most of you, will choose to strengthen. Some may cut their losses on Torres and go for a new Main Man up front, while others might stick it out with Torres and just look for a little extra Backup. If you’re going for one of the main strikers, they’ll be expensive, we’re talking atleast £30m, so prepared for that, shipping Torres out will help, and nobody should be too out of your price range. For backups, you’re looking at somewhere up £7.5m. Here’s a couple of suggestions for either:

Main Man: Falcao, Edison Cavani, Neymar, Robert Lewandewski, Papis Cisse, Leandro Damiao, Seydou Doumbia

Backup Striker: Lukaku (recalled), Demba Ba, Leonard Kweuke, Nicklas Helenius

Central Defence:

For me, Ivanovic will be a right back, which means I’ll only have three centre backs in JT, Cahill and Luiz. So a new backup centre back is on my agenda, someone young enough to become a first teamer but who won’t be upset by being second choice behind the first three players

Backup: Kurt Zouma, Matthias Ginter, Joel Matip, Samuel Umiti, Jordi Amat, Inigo Martinez, Doria, Alessio Romagnoli

Central Midfield

Four players for two positions might seem a little light, especially if like me, you’re playing both Ramires and Lampard. Though Ramires is capable of playing almost every game, it’s a long season and he’ll need a rest, while Lampard has no natural backup in the squad other than Ramires. I’d say Mikel and Romeu can play easily backup for Ramires, but without McEachran there’s nobody to play backup to Frank. So, I’d look for a young, cultured, deep lying playmaker to play backup to Lampard now, and to compete with McEachran in the future.

Young Central Midfielder: Ruben Pardo, Isco, Adryan, James Ward-Prowse, Tolga Cigerci, Ross Barkley

[Bracken]

The Challenge

Build on Munich

The squad has seen heavy investment over the summer, some of the heaviest since Roman took office. You now have a wealth of talent at your disposal, some of the greatest young attacking footballers in the world, a solid defensive base, and training and youth set ups that most clubs would envy. Now is the time to build a lasting legacy, Chelsea have struggled to find a manager that could bring sustained success since Mourinho. You have to be that person.

Let Me Entertain You

The owner has made it pretty clear that he wants exciting, attacking football at the Bridge. While Jose may be revered by Chelsea fans, most acknowledge that there were times when the team wasn’t exactly beautiful to watch. Your job is to bring back the solid defensive work shown by Mourinho’s Chelsea, and couple it with a new, exciting, dynamic approach to attacking that will set the fans, and the owners, hearts racing.

Money, Money, Money

Roman is a wealthy man, but what happens if one day the money stops? While you’re given a substantial transfer and wage budget upon your arrival, you may want to keep some of it back. The wage bill at Chelsea is huge, with players such as Hazard, Terry and Torres all earning over £170k p/w. In order to make sure the club is self-sustaining in the even that Roman decides to leave, that bill must be brought under control. Making the club profitable (especially if you don’t include prize money) is a huge challenge, and will only be met long term.

Bye Bye to the Bridge

It’s no secret that Chelsea have been actively seeking ways of increasing revenue, the biggest of these being a move away from, or expansion of, Stamford Bridge. A 41,000 capacity is simply not enough for a club with the support and ambition of Chelsea. But, it’ll take a healthy bank balance and a strong plan for the future if you’re going to convince Roman to invest in a new ground. Who knows, if you’re good enough, maybe it’ll be named after you.

Beating Sir Alex

The longest term challenge: become the best manager in the history of the Premiership, of English football, and finally of world football, and do it all by building a Chelsea dynasty. You’ll have to win the treble, title after title, and build and rebuild the club time and again. See if you can beat Fergie, and become the best there has ever been.

The Records

Post your records in here, I’ll keep it as up to date as I can.

Season records

Most Premier League points in a season: 98 - kamikaze_josh

Most Premier League goals in a season:

Fewest Premier League goals conceded in a season:

Biggest Premier League goal difference in a season: +67 - kamikaze_josh

Biggest home win:

Biggest away win:

Most games won in a row:

Most games without defeat in a row:

Most games without conceding a goal in a row:

Player records

Most league goals from an individual in a season:

Most goals from an individual in a season in all competitions:

Most league assists from an individual in a season:

Most assists from an individual in a season in all competitions:

Most league clean sheets from an individual in a season:

Most clean sheets from an individual in a season in all competitions:

Highest league average rating from an individual in a season:

Highest average rating from an individual in a season in all competitions:

Fastest goal:

Fastest hat trick:

Youngest player:

Youngest goal scorer:

Oldest player:

Oldest goal scorer:

Most World Player of the Year awards for a Chelsea player:

Most World Footballer of the Year awards for a Chelsea player:

Most World Goalkeeper of the Year awards for a Chelsea player:

Most World Defender of the Year awards for a Chelsea player:

Most World Midfielder of the Year awards for a Chelsea player:

Most World Striker of the Year awards for a Chelsea player:

Specific player records

Most league goals from Fernando Torres in a season:

Most goals from Fernando Torres in a season in all competitions: 25 - kamikaze_josh

Most league goals from Juan Mata in a season:

Most goals from Juan Mata in a season in all competitions:

Most league goals from Eden Hazard in a season:

Most goals from Eden Hazard in a season in all competitions:

Most league goals from Oscar in a season:

Most goals from Oscar in a season in all competitions:

Most league goals from Frank Lampard in a season:

Most goals from Frank Lampard in a season in all competitions:

Most league assists from Juan Mata in a season:

Most assists from Juan Mata in a season in all competitions:

Most league assists from Eden Hazard in a season: 19 - tremberz

Most assists from Eden Hazard in a season in all competitions:

Most league assists from Oscar in a season:

Most assists from Oscar in a season in all competitions:

Most league assists from Frank Lampard in a season:

Most assists from Frank Lampard in a season in all competitions:

Most league goals from John Obi Mikel in a season:

Most goals from John Obi Mikel in a season in all competitions

Manager records

Most career games won:

Most career goals scored:

Most Manager of the Month awards:

Most Manager of the Year awards:

Highest World Wide Hall of Fame position:

Longest time at the club:

Highest total career earnings:

Most World Cups won, while managing Chelsea:

Most Premier League titles:

Most Champions League titles:

Most World Club Cup titles:

Most FA Cup titles:

Most Trebles won (PL, CL, FA):

Most League Cup titles:

Most consecutive Premier League titles:

Most consecutive Champions League titles:

Most consecutive World Club Cup titles:

Most consecutive FA Cup titles:

Most consecutive League Cup titles:

Most consecutives Trebles won (PL, CL, FA):

Most competitions won:

[thegr8anand]

Very well done Bracken

So I have finished a season with Chelsea. Would suggest getting more players as the fitness is not realistic yet and with the games we play I literally had to play a different starting 11. And also injuries didn't help. We don't seem to have a natural AMR as I have been playing 451(2MC,AMC,2W), I bought Valencia for 23m, cheap considering he was valued very high(around 16m i think) and his stats are very good better than Nani. Even though I recalled Lukaku in Jan it would have been better at the start as he has big potential and we need a backup to Torres. I also bought a decent young striker Niklas Helenius for 3m wouldn't have if i had got Lukaku. And Malouda has a very important role to play as well. Also I bought Nkoulou for 21m who has 4.5* pot as a DC and he already had good stats. In Jan bought Adryan from Flamengo for 1.2m who has 5* pot.

[BCFC_Mike]

Has the fitness issue been raised as a bug? I've noticed it in my City save too and it gets frustrating!

Sorry to intrude btw

[thegr8anand]

No problem I did complain about it in the feedback thread and few others as well. But some defended it saying we are supposed to use shouts like take a breather etc and less training which still doesn't help. My training was already on balanced and with rest days before and after match, they trained for very few days.

[BCFC_Mike]

Hmm. Ok cheers mate.

Good luck with the rest of the thread Bracken

[essien_5]

Been having a mess around with the Beta and will probably start a full save next week in case a release day patch comes out.

Really looking forward to this year, will be the first time for a few years that drastic changes to the squad are not required over the first couple of seasons. I will probably look to do something similar to real life which is continuing to buy young talent and phase out the older players in time. A striker is probably a requirement, and am looking at Kweuke with a £3.5m release clause (despite the temptation to try and buy Falcao!).

The game doesn't have a pre installed 4-2-3-1 like in real life. They have one where the '2' are defensive midfielders, but this would mean retraining Ramires and Lampard to play in that role. Is it too risky to play with the '2' being central midfielders? Also with a 4-2-3-1 how do people utilise the attacking players in their roles or individual tactics to get the most out of them, and what team tactics do people use?

[SRL88]

Nice work

[Bracken]

Hmm. Ok cheers mate.

Good luck with the rest of the thread Bracken

Cheers mate, hope it's ok, it's my first club thread.

The game doesn't have a pre installed 4-2-3-1 like in real life. They have one where the '2' are defensive midfielders, but this would mean retraining Ramires and Lampard to play in that role. Is it too risky to play with the '2' being central midfielders? Also with a 4-2-3-1 how do people utilise the attacking players in their roles or individual tactics to get the most out of them, and what team tactics do people use?

I've always had the 2 as central rather than defensive and it's worked ok for me, I haven't had the chance to try it on the beta that much yet, but I'm sure it can be made to work. My thinking is to keep the 3 attacking mids central as well, but give two of them the instruction to move into channels, I've played a few games with it and it works pretty well. I'll be doing a tactics post soon

Nice work

Thanks mate

[essien_5]

Cheers Bracken, look forward to a tactics post. Having the three centrally sounds a good idea when it's Hazard, Mata and Oscar. Will probably consider buying Dzagoev in January on a free aswell who would slot in too. However Marin and Moses IMO would work much better starting out wide, so may look at utilising a backup tactic which uses two wingers and a central playmaker.

I really need to get the midfield right. If I use two defensive midfielders then I will probably re-train Ramires and buy another defensive midifelder alongside Ramires, Mikel and Romeu. This would also leave Lampard pretty much redundant which won't be nice to do! However if I use two central midfielders then would probably keep using Lampard and make do the first season. It's just awkward having two natural central midfielders and two natural defensive midfielders.

De Bruyne looks potentially special aswell - genuine long term Lampard replacement.

[BCFC_Mike]

Cheers mate, hope it's ok, it's my first club thread.

As was mine this year, and yours looks set to beat it all over

[Cardoso12345]

The thread is looking good so far, can't wait to read it all. As others have indicated, had a brief play around with the beta but waiting on the full release and any changes it brings. What are everyone's thoughts on the quality of the squad + area for improvement...

[essien_5]

The thread is looking good so far, can't wait to read it all. As others have indicated, had a brief play around with the beta but waiting on the full release and any changes it brings. What are everyone's thoughts on the quality of the squad + area for improvement...

I think the squad is high on quality but short on depth. Probably about 3 players too short in depth but the problem is that there are a lot of quality young players both coming through the ranks and out on loan which makes for a difficult decision. Do you buy squad depth first season or try and make do knowing the likes of Courtois, Kalas, De Bruyne and Lukaku are due to come back from loan spells.

The quality young talent is a big plus for me. Hazard will evolve into one of the best players in the game, as will Oscar probably.

Area for improvement is definately up front. Torres and Sturridge isn't enough and Torres has been downgraded this year. I'm tempted though to give Torres the first season as main striker and then try to bring Llorente in on a free for the second season...possibly.

[Phil930]

Great post Bracken - walk into this thread with frustration following todays game!

[kamikaze_josh]

Great start to the thread Bracken. Looking forward to starting a save with Chelsea at some point soon. As above, gutted about today's game.

First task will be getting some high earners off the wage bill. Shocked by Hazard's £185k p/w wages, might even be tempted to sell at some point. I'm very excited by Oscar. I might ease him in to the side rotating with Lampard to begin with, but will eventually build the team around him.

Good luck everybody!

[xDieArdUk]

Great Work Bracken..... Im halfway through my 2nd season and boy its difficult right now. Last season i finished 3rd ,Won CL ,CC and FA Cup.

Transfers In:

Dede

Damiao

Falcao

Gundogan

Out:

Malouda

Marin

Torres

Ivanovic

[Bracken]

Thanks guys, glad you like it so far, still some more to add and I'll keep updating it as the year goes on. If anyone actually reads it all, I'll give them a sticker I'm going to continue messing around on the beta when I have time, I'll start my full save when the full game is released, work allowing, and sadly I'm being sent away for a couple of weeks in early November, but I'll try and keep the thread as up to date as possible.

Interesting transfers xDieArdUkx, just curious why you got rid of Marin and Ivanovic? How have Damiao and Falcao worked out for you so far?

[bucket]

Great opening bracken mate.

[xDieArdUk]

Thanks guys, glad you like it so far, still some more to add and I'll keep updating it as the year goes on. If anyone actually reads it all, I'll give them a sticker I'm going to continue messing around on the beta when I have time, I'll start my full save when the full game is released, work allowing, and sadly I'm being sent away for a couple of weeks in early November, but I'll try and keep the thread as up to date as possible.

Interesting transfers xDieArdUkx, just curious why you got rid of Marin and Ivanovic? How have Damiao and Falcao worked out for you so far?

I found Marin very injury prone and with Moses being able to play both flanks aswell as players like Bertrand,Sturridge (one of my best players right now) and Oscar also being good out wide i figured it was a waste of wages. Ivanovic was a very average player for me and someone i really saw as a CB but Dede ,Luiz ,Cahill and Terry are all better for me. Falcao has been the biggest flop ive ever had on any FM to date. Something i found weird was he seems to play best when hes partnered with someone which is the complete opposite to him in real life. Damiao however has been good links up well and scores. Complete package

[Bracken]

I found Marin very injury prone and with Moses being able to play both flanks aswell as players like Bertrand,Sturridge (one of my best players right now) and Oscar also being good out wide i figured it was a waste of wages. Ivanovic was a very average player for me and someone i really saw as a CB but Dede ,Luiz ,Cahill and Terry are all better for me. Falcao has been the biggest flop ive ever had on any FM to date. Something i found weird was he seems to play best when hes partnered with someone which is the complete opposite to him in real life. Damiao however has been good links up well and scores. Complete package

Interesting, thanks mate. Damiao almost certainly going to be my number 9, I'm finally starting to give up on Torres in real life, and on FM his wages are just too high for the standard he seems to provide. Damiao, as you said, is the complete package, how much did you pay for him and Falcao? In my experience Ivanovic has always been a better right back than a centre back, so I'll stick with him for a while and see how he goes. Good to hear that Sturridge is playing well for you, hope that continues

Cheers bucket!

[xDieArdUk]

Interesting, thanks mate. Damiao almost certainly going to be my number 9, I'm finally starting to give up on Torres in real life, and on FM his wages are just too high for the standard he seems to provide. Damiao, as you said, is the complete package, how much did you pay for him and Falcao? In my experience Ivanovic has always been a better right back than a centre back, so I'll stick with him for a while and see how he goes. Good to hear that Sturridge is playing well for you, hope that continues

Cheers bucket!

Yeah Torres is really starting to do my head in. Hes shockingly bad on FM now aswell compared to previous versions where hes been a goal a game striker. Falcao i paid 50mill and Damiao i paid 29.5 in hindsight i should of gone for Cavani instead of Falcao i think. Got a long term plan in place of Jetro Willems to come in for Cole seeing as Bertrands been neglected again on this database and Romulo in as a ball winner. Mikels also on his way out of the door.

Pondering redoing my save now tho as ive experimented too much with this team and its abit disjointed. Got Hazard playing AMR now and hes seriously immense.

[Ty]

I will no doubt start my Chelsea save some time in the near future, I will never recreate the success I had on FM07 though.

Great OP, nice squad analysis

[Bracken]

Yeah Torres is really starting to do my head in. Hes shockingly bad on FM now aswell compared to previous versions where hes been a goal a game striker. Falcao i paid 50mill and Damiao i paid 29.5 in hindsight i should of gone for Cavani instead of Falcao i think. Got a long term plan in place of Jetro Willems to come in for Cole seeing as Bertrands been neglected again on this database and Romulo in as a ball winner. Mikels also on his way out of the door.

Pondering redoing my save now tho as ive experimented too much with this team and its abit disjointed. Got Hazard playing AMR now and hes seriously immense.

Your save seems very similar to a lot of the plans I've got, Willems and Romulo are players I'm looking at, along with Damiao who I'll almost certainly sign, £29.5m is a good price too, I'll see if I can get him for around that. Glad Hazard is playing so well for you, from what I can tell he's basically awesome every where

I will no doubt start my Chelsea save some time in the near future, I will never recreate the success I had on FM07 though.

Great OP, nice squad analysis

Cheers Ty, looking forward to hearing how you get on, hope you find that magic ingredient to bring the success back

[Canal]

Great opening post!

Just started my first season, weirdly i adopted almost exactly the same formation/tactics as you suggested.... to be fair, pretty standard given the power on Hazard, Mata, Oscar at AMC.

Im currently 3 games in, signing Demba Ba and Isco for a combined £19m.

I am considering a new LB as well. Cole out of contract + high wages and Bertrand has been shockingly underrated (again)! Any suggestions?

Anyone been able to sell Torres for much? He's pretty balls to be fair....

[Ty]

hope you find that magic ingredient to bring the success back

That magic ingredient on FM07 was David Villa. Wow.

Doubt he would have the same affect on FM13 though...

Just really want to try that attacking midfield that Chelsea possesses, the reason I love them in real life.

[Canal]

The Challenge

Most league goals from John Obi Mikel in a season:

Most goals from John Obi Mikel in a season in all competitions

:

Gonna be an interesting one.....

[Bracken]

Great opening post!

Just started my first season, weirdly i adopted almost exactly the same formation/tactics as you suggested.... to be fair, pretty standard given the power on Hazard, Mata, Oscar at AMC.

Im currently 3 games in, signing Demba Ba and Isco for a combined £19m.

I am considering a new LB as well. Cole out of contract + high wages and Bertrand has been shockingly underrated (again)! Any suggestions?

Anyone been able to sell Torres for much? He's pretty balls to be fair....

Hey Canal, how's it going? As LB's go, xDieHardUkx hit it right on with Jetro Willems, great young LB who you could bring in now, let Ash run his contract down, and then have Willems and and Bertrand for the next however many years. I managed to sell Torres to Napoli for his value on one trial save I had, but haven't had much interest above that.

That magic ingredient on FM07 was David Villa. Wow.

Doubt he would have the same affect on FM13 though...

Just really want to try that attacking midfield that Chelsea possesses, the reason I love them in real life.

Yeah, can't see Villa having quite the same effect this time around sadly. Good luck anyway, hope managing that holy trio is as fun as you'd like it to be

Gonna be an interesting one.....

Had to make it a bit of challenge didn't I?

[thegr8anand]

Alaba is the best LB in the game and the only one i saw rated 5* pot. I got him at start of 2nd season for 26.5m. Just got ditched by Neymar at the same time who chose ManU over Chelsea . Bid was for 40m. In a pickle now as I was hoping to sign Neymar instead of Falcao and he went on to sign a new contract and not available anymore.

[joe__the__man]

Just come in here for the first time, great job with the OP Bracken, love that intro. :') No screenshots though, slapdash.

Not even bought FM13 yet as I'm busy playing other games, but this thread has tempted me more than anything else would.

[Blue Down Under]

Fantastic OP Bracken! Player and transfer analysis is spot on.

I am also thinking of the 4-2-3-1. How can you go any other way when you have Mata, Hazard and Oscar?

I really like the look of Gundogan as Lamp's long term replacement in the centre of midfield and my scouts give him 5 stars. Hopefully I won't be held to ransom over his price.

Torres' attributes have been slashed this year, usually I keep him because with some patience and encouragement can be a world beater, but am not so sure this year. The only problem is that it is hard to find a replacement, Falcao is the obvious choice but bloody expensive and I prefer to buy younger players that I can develop. I rate Ademilson who looks a good long term bet as a poacher but is not ready to start and in this sense is similar to Sturridge, who doesn't seem good enough to lead the yet, and Lukaku who needs a few seasons under his belt to develop into the automatic first team choice. My scouts don't massively rate Damiao. Any suggestions would be gratefully received.

I also agree that a young centre back is a must, but my scouts really rate Zouma and Jones, both of whom are priced ridiculously highly and those that are affordable don't seem ever likely to reach the level of quality to replace JT, at least not according to my scouts. Again, any suggestions would be gratefully received.

[bucket]

Anyone got decent suggestions for back room staff? I always find it staggering that our coaches/physio's are rated so low.

[thegr8anand]

Ya backroom staff is bad and just to terminate their contracts cost me millions.

I got Baresi as AssMan and he has great stats. Currently coaching Tactics as 4.5*.

Antonio Pintus and Tonino Oliveira are my fitness coach with 5* and 4.5* respectively.

Rodolfo Borell Ball Control Coach at 4.5*.

Marcel Desailly as Defending at 4.5*. Warren Joyce is also 4.5*.

I discarded Beeny and got Oscar Rodriguez as GK coach is 5* along with Lollichon who is already great 4.5*.

Hard to get any coach above 4* for Attacking and Shooting. Have Steve Holland and Sbraglia respectively, both 4*.

Fransico Ayesteran as coach just for his 19 tactical knowledge which is helpful for opposition team instructions.

Similarly Gilmar Fransico as fitness coach because he has 20 JA/JP which is useful to analyze the squad in team report as we can't use scouts.

For physio got Stefano Grani (Head Physio), Fevre and Libra as physios. Sadly Eva Carniero wasn't good enough.

Elio Carravetta is my Head of Youth Development. Alexandre Ceolin is my Chief Scout.

And you have to get some U18 coaches as regular coach won't work with U18 squad anymore. Fitness/GK coach still do though.

And some coaches will improve even more as they get a better license. Continental B->A->Pro.

[bucket]

Nice one thanks very much. What about a DOF?

[thegr8anand]

Well I am not using DOF for anything right now and didn't know who would be best. Though did replace with Paulo Carneiro as he has good JA/JP and mental stats which might be useful if I need him for sale/purchase.

[bucket]

Well I am not using DOF for anything right now and didn't know who would be best. Though did replace with Paulo Carneiro as he has good JA/JP and mental stats which might be useful if I need him for sale/purchase.

Top man. Thanks very much

[el sid]

Great OP Bracken

Will obviously be playing a Chelsea save at some point in the future (got to get the game first ), so will keep an eye out for this thread.

Andre Schurrle is one ST option you guys could look at. Realistic too

[bucket]

On my first attempt I signed Lewandowski and he managed to notch up 40 goals in his first season. Won everything in that 1st season except the charity shield. 2nd season, I didn't sign anyone but realised I've made a huge mistake in letting players go and not replacing them. (But this was only an experiment attempt) so out went lamps, Cole, Mikel and stripped JT of the captaincy and gave it to Cech. This has only resulted in us losing each game played 5 won 1 lost 4. And each match was a proper pasting, off top of my head I think I got beat by Swansea 4-1. At HOME!

So will start again tonight for a muck about again before the full release.

[xDieArdUk]

On my first attempt I signed Lewandowski and he managed to notch up 40 goals in his first season. Won everything in that 1st season except the charity shield. 2nd season, I didn't sign anyone but realised I've made a huge mistake in letting players go and not replacing them. (But this was only an experiment attempt) so out went lamps, Cole, Mikel and stripped JT of the captaincy and gave it to Cech. This has only resulted in us losing each game played 5 won 1 lost 4. And each match was a proper pasting, off top of my head I think I got beat by Swansea 4-1. At HOME!

So will start again tonight for a muck about again before the full release.

Problem is JT is the best CB we have :/ Cant go pee'ing him off unless you have gone large and bought 2 top notch CB's like im pondering in Hummels and Dede....

[bucket]

Dede is a beast and so going to try and buy him on the full release. What do you think of Subotic?

[J.T]

Great OP Bracken

Just started my Chelsea save. I think I am going to play a 4-2-3-1 with AMR/L's.

I also want to replace Torres as I have run out of patience. How much have people been selling him for?

Hopefully this will be my main save this year alongside my Derby save

Cheers

[thegr8anand]

Dede or Nkoulou are the best DC you can get early. I got Nkoulou as he was younger and rated higher by my scouts.

[xDieArdUk]

Dede is a beast and so going to try and buy him on the full release. What do you think of Subotic?

Massively low concentration and acceleration on my game. So proberbly gunna be one of them defenders who get torn to shreds when up against a pacey player with good positioning.

[kamikaze_josh]

Had a quick bash, but will start properly when the full game is released.

Transfers Out:

Torres

Cole

Malouda

Transfers In:

Falcao

Alaba

Playing a 4-3-3 at the moment, this is my first choice line-up. Haven't bothered to adjust anything as it's just a warm up save.

.............................Cech................................

.............................GK-D................................

Ivanovic..........Luiz.............Terry..............Alaba

FB-Auto..........CD-C............CD-X...........FB-Auto

.............................Mikel................................

............................DLP-D...............................

...................Ramires.........Oscar......................

...................BWM-S..........AP-A......................

Mata....................................................Hazard

IF-S........................................................IF-S

.............................Falcao..............................

..............................CF-A...............................

[J.T]

What have your results been like so far?

[Canal]

Im just continually restarting seasons trying out new tactics...

What role does everyone give Mata? I want to make him my key man in midfield, i want him to 'pull the strings'. What can I do to help make this happen?

Also, up top, Damiao? How much have people paid for him?

[Blue Down Under]

Making Mata 'advanced playmaker' should help.

[Bracken]

Damiao cost me £34m but that was after I unsettled him, expensive I know but so far (only in pre-season), he's proved more than worth it, really compliments the attacking trio well.

[kamikaze_josh]

What have your results been like so far?

4 very impressive pre-season wins and a fortunate 2-1 win against Man City in the Community Shield. Will post results when I get a chance to get further into the season. The front 3 have been fantastic! Already a lot of things I'm going to change though when I start my full save.