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The Second Half FM
Rebuilding Chelsea: A Club Reclaimed
There are football stories that feel scripted — dramatic rises, crushing falls, and heroic rebuilds. And then there’s this one. A story not just about results on the pitch, but about identity, ownership, and what a football club truly belongs to.
This is the beginning of a long-term Football Manager 2026 journey — a save built on chaos, consequence, and ultimately, hope.
The Fall of BlueCo
When the consortium led by BlueCo took control of Chelsea FC, it promised innovation, sustainability, and a new era. What followed instead was a period defined by confusion, controversy, and growing disconnect between club and supporters.
Fan unrest didn’t come from nowhere — it built steadily, fuelled by very real issues:
Where It Went Wrong
Aggressive and chaotic transfer strategy
Lack of footballing direction
Disconnect with supporters
Financial irregularities
Regulatory consequences
The breaking point came when governing bodies confirmed irregular findings in financial data submitted by BlueCo — a scandal that would change everything.
The Ultimate Collapse
The consequences were severe — not just symbolic, but devastatingly real:
Relegation to the Championship
20-point deduction to start the season
3-year transfer ban (6 windows)
£1.1 billion in debt inherited
Chelsea, once a dominant force in English and European football, had been reduced to a cautionary tale.
And that’s when the fans stepped in.
The Birth of CFC Ltd
After 18 months of intense negotiations, the Chelsea Supporters Trust achieved what once felt impossible.
They bought the club.
Under a new entity — CFC Ltd (Chelsea Fan Club Limited) — Chelsea would become a fan-owned institution, inspired by the democratic model of clubs like Real Madrid.
The Deal
Purchase price: £3.9 billion
Debt assumed: £1.1 billion
Total valuation: ~£5 billion compromise
It wasn’t cheap. It wasn’t easy. But it meant one thing:
Chelsea Football Club was back in the hands of its people.
A New Era of Leadership
Fan ownership demanded a new structure — one built on accountability and long-term thinking.
Presidential Model
A club president elected every 4 years
Responsible for major decisions and long-term direction
Direct accountability to the fans
The first man to take on that responsibility:
Alex Weston
Age: 48
Profession: Investment Banker
Chelsea supporter since childhood
First match attended: 1988
Season ticket holder since: 1995
Weston represents something modern football often lacks — a leader who understands the club not as an asset, but as a lifelong commitment.
The Problems We Inherit
CFC Ltd doesn’t take over a sleeping giant — it takes over a club in crisis.
Starting Conditions
Championship football with a 20-point deduction
Transfer embargo for 3 full seasons
£1.1 billion debt burden
Damaged reputation across football
A fractured squad built without balance or purpose
This isn’t a rebuild.
This is survival first.
The Vision: A Club Reimagined
Where BlueCo failed, CFC Ltd have drawn a line in the sand. The new ownership isn’t just about fixing problems — it’s about redefining what Chelsea stands for.
Core Principles
Self-Sustaining Transfers
Youth at the Heart
Promote at least one “Home Grown At Club” player each season
Player must:
Financial Responsibility
What This Story Will Be
This isn’t just about winning trophies.
It’s about:
Every decision matters more when there’s no bailout, no shortcuts, and no margin for error.
The Journey Starts Here
Chelsea Football Club has fallen further than anyone thought possible.
Now, under fan ownership, burdened by debt, stripped of resources, and fighting against the odds…
the rebuild begins.
The Appointment: A Manager Built, Not Bought
If the rebirth of Chelsea FC under fan ownership was always going to be symbolic, then the first managerial appointment had to reflect that same philosophy.
No big-name appointment.
No expensive rebuild figurehead.
No quick fix.
Instead, under the leadership of President Alex Weston, CFC Ltd made a statement:
Chelsea would build from within.
Meet the Manager: Joe Brookes
At first glance, Joe Brookes is not the typical name you’d expect to lead one of England’s biggest clubs — especially in its most fragile moment.
But this isn’t a typical situation.
Profile
Age: 38
Nationality: English
Hometown: Northampton
Playing Career
Earned 18 international caps, scoring 8 goals
Spent the majority of his career in:
A technically intelligent forward, known more for movement and understanding of the game than raw physicality
Retired at 30, recognising his level was no longer where it needed to be
That decision — to step away early — says a lot about Brookes.
He understands standards.
And he understands when they aren’t being met.
From Player to Coach
Unlike many former players who drift into coaching, Brookes approached it with intent.
The Coaching Journey
Completed all major coaching qualifications soon after retirement
Took the unconventional route:
Coaching amateur sides in Ireland
Learning the game from the ground up — without spotlight or shortcuts
Built a reputation for:
It wasn’t glamorous.
But it was real football education.
The Chelsea Connection
Brookes’ big break came quietly — and fittingly — inside the club he would one day lead.
Joined Chelsea’s youth setup
Quickly identified as a developer of talent and culture-setter
Promoted to Under-21 manager
At that level, he wasn’t just coaching players — he was:
Bridging the gap between academy and first team
Instilling structure and identity
Working within constraints — something that now defines the first team environment
Why Him?
When Alex Weston and CFC Ltd evaluated their options, the decision wasn’t about reputation.
It was about alignment.
Why Joe Brookes Fits This Project
Understands the club internally
Proven youth developer
Comfortable working under restrictions
Values-first mentality
Hungry, not entitled
In many ways, Brookes represents the same thing as the new ownership:
A reset.
The Risk Factor
Let’s be clear — this is a gamble.
No senior first-team managerial experience
Walking into:
No margin for error.
And yet…
That may be exactly why he was chosen.
A Manager for This Moment
This version of Chelsea doesn’t need a superstar manager.
It needs:
Joe Brookes is not here to deliver instant success.
He’s here to:
The Beginning of a New Identity
Under Chelsea Supporters Trust ownership, with Alex Weston at the helm and Joe Brookes in the dugout, Chelsea are no longer chasing shortcuts.
They are building something slower.
Something riskier.
Something more meaningful.
And now, with a young, unproven manager leading a broken giant into the Championship…
the real story begins.
The Second Half FM
Season Kick-Off – Getting Started
By Joe Brookes
When I first sat down with Alex Weston after accepting the role at Chelsea FC, there was no illusion about the size of the task ahead. This wasn’t about steady progress or building quietly over time. This was about firefighting — immediately.
The expectations laid out were clear, and in truth, they had to be.
On paper, it sounds manageable. In reality, starting a Championship season 20 points behind everyone else, under a transfer embargo, and with the club drowning in debt… it’s anything but.
The media have predicted us to finish 23rd. I understand why. But internally, we’re setting our standards a lot higher than that.
A Window With No Way In
This summer was always going to be different. For the first time in my career, I went into a transfer window knowing I couldn’t bring a single player in. The ban forced our hand — but if I’m honest, it also sharpened my focus.
Instead of scanning the market, I’ve spent my time studying what we already have:
The academy has become just as important as the first team overnight.
If this club is going to recover, it won’t be through spending — it will be through development.
Difficult Decisions Outgoing
If we couldn’t bring players in, we had to move some out.
The board set a target of £50 million in player sales, but once I saw the true scale of the debt, I knew that wouldn’t be enough. Not even close.
The frustrating part? Interest was there — but not the right kind.
We received:
All rejected. Not because we don’t need the money — we do — but because stripping the squad of its core now would destroy any chance we have of competing. If my plan works, we’ll need these players next season.
In the end, we found a balance. We moved on ten players and generated £112 million in sales — more than double the target. It was necessary, even if it wasn’t ideal.
Some of the notable departures included:
Good players. Useful players. But sacrifices had to be made.
Building an Identity on the Pitch
With no new signings, identity becomes everything. From day one, I’ve been clear about how I want this team to play.
We’ve set up in a 4-2-3-1 out of possession and switch to a 4-3-3, but in reality, it’s far more fluid than that. The aim is simple:
Out of possession:
It’s demanding. Technically and physically. But if the players buy into it, it gives us a clear identity — something this club has lacked.
Shaping the Core of the Team
Even with the challenges, there’s a strong spine to this squad.
In goal, I’m leaning towards Robert Sánchez — though Filip Jörgensen is pushing him every day.
Defensively, we’ve taken a huge hit losing Levi Colwill for the season. That’s not something you replace easily. But I still believe in the structure we can build around players like Reece James, Wesley Fofana, and Marc Cucurella.
Midfield picks itself in many ways:
That partnership will define us.
Further forward, players like Cole Palmer and Estevão will carry a lot of creative responsibility, with a couple of positions still open for competition.
Out of the eleven, I’d say seven spots are fairly set.
The rest?
They’re there to be earned.
A First Step Into the Future
One of the responsibilities that comes with this role — especially under the model set by the Chelsea Supporters Trust — is developing our own players. I didn’t want to rush that decision. I needed to understand the first team first. But one name kept coming up.
Josh Acheampong. Nineteen years old. A defender who can play across the back line, comfortable at centre-back or on the right. At 6’3”, he gives us a physical presence we don’t have much of.
He’s not the finished product — far from it — but he’s ready to contribute.
This season, he will be our designated academy graduate. And importantly, he will play. Not just minutes here and there — real involvement.
My Expectations — Not the Board’s
Publicly, the goal is survival. Privately, I’m aiming much higher.
If this squad performs to its level, we should be capable of pushing towards 100 points over the season. With the deduction, that brings us back to around 80 — which could be enough for the playoffs. It’s ambitious. Maybe even unrealistic. But I’d rather aim high and fall short than accept mediocrity.
Beyond that:
A trophy changes everything. Especially now, with European football already on the table.
The Reality Beneath It All
Not everything revealed to me since taking the job has been encouraging. The debt isn’t £1.1 billion like we first thought. It’s closer to £1.7 billion.
That changes things. It increases the pressure. It shortens timelines. It makes promotion not just important — but essential.
A Strange Twist of Fate
And then, just when things couldn’t get any more surreal…
We received confirmation from UEFA. Despite everything that’s happened domestically, the sanctions imposed don’t apply to them. Which means, because of last season’s 4th place finish…
We will be playing in the Champions League. A Championship club. In Europe’s elite competition.
It’s hard to process, even now.
But it also presents an opportunity — financially, reputationally, and emotionally.
Where We Stand
We begin this season:
But also:
This isn’t a normal season.
It’s a test of everything — character, belief, and resilience.
And as I look ahead to the first game…
I know one thing for certain:
There will be no easy moments. But there is still a chance to build something special.
The Second Half FM
Early Season Pulse – Where We Stand
By Joe Brookes
Twelve games into the season, and I can honestly say — this job hasn’t given me a moment to settle. Every three days, another match. Every week, a new challenge.
League fixtures, European nights, and the constant pressure of managing a club that feels like it’s balancing on a knife edge financially.
But despite all of that… the players have responded.
Fighting Back From the Impossible
It’s easy to look at the table and see 20th place and make assumptions. But context is everything.
We started this season 20 points behind everyone else — written off before a ball was even kicked. And yet, after 12 games, the numbers tell a very different story.
We’ve won 10 and lost just 2. We’ve scored 31 goals — the most in the league. We’ve conceded just 10 — the best defensive record. And still… we sit on 10 points.
It’s a strange feeling. On performance, we look like one of the strongest sides in the division. On paper, we’re still playing catch-up.
But that was always the reality of this job.
Finding Stability at the Back
The start of the season wasn’t perfect — especially defensively. Filip Jörgensen stepped in while Robert Sánchez was injured, and to his credit, he did a solid job. But we lacked consistency, and we conceded more than I was comfortable with. Since Sánchez returned, though, everything has settled. There’s more organisation. More communication. More confidence across the back line. And the results reflect that.
Five clean sheets already, the most in the league. Sometimes, it’s not about spectacular saves — it’s about presence. He’s given us that.
A Lesson Learned in the Cups
Our Carabao Cup run ended early with a 2-0 defeat to Brentford. That one sits with me.
I made changes to keep the squad fresh, knowing the schedule we’re dealing with, and it cost us. At a club like Chelsea FC, you’re expected to compete in every competition, regardless of circumstances.
It’s a balance I’m still learning.
The FA Cup doesn’t begin until January, and given our situation, it may become more important than ever as the season goes on.
A Surreal European Campaign
There are moments where I have to remind myself of the reality we’re in. We’re a Championship side… playing in the Champions League. And not just competing — leading.
Three games. Three wins. Ten goals scored. Just two conceded.
We’ve beaten:
I didn’t expect this. Not like this.
Yes, we have quality in the squad — players who belong at that level — but the circumstances are unique. Balancing a lower domestic league with elite European competition isn’t straightforward.
What I’ve been most impressed with is the mentality. The players haven’t looked out of place. They’ve embraced it.
A System That’s Starting to Stick
Injuries have made things difficult. We’ve had players out of position, constant rotation, and very little chance to build rhythm. But despite that, the tactical framework is holding.
We’re averaging over two goals a game and conceding less than one. That balance is exactly what I want.
One thing that’s really stood out is how effective we’ve been down the left-hand side. Marc Cucurella has been excellent — not just defensively, but in how he links play:
A lot of our attacking threat is coming from that side, and it’s something we’re continuing to build on.
The Players Setting the Standard
There are always individuals who define the early part of a season.
For us, Estevão has been outstanding.
Five goals and six assists in fifteen games tells its own story, but it’s more than that. He’s fearless, direct, and decisive. He’s keeping experienced players like Neto and Gittens out of the team on merit.
That’s exactly the kind of competition we need.
Benoît Badiashile has also been a standout — consistent, composed, and reliable during a period where we’ve needed stability at the back.
Areas That Need More
Not everything has been perfect.
Malo Gusto has had a difficult spell. With Reece James injured, he’s had to step in as our first-choice right-back, and while his availability has been important, the performances haven’t quite been where I need them to be. An average rating of 6.89 tells part of the story.
I need more from him:
He knows that — and we’re working on it.
Progress From Within
One of the most important parts of this season is development.
Josh Acheampong has made a promising start.
Four starts, three appearances from the bench, and even a goal. He’s been asked to play out of position at times, particularly at right-back, to help manage the squad — and he’s handled it well. He’s not dominating games yet, but that’s not the expectation.
What I’m seeing is:
That’s exactly what we need.
The Fans Are With Us
The support from the fans — now the owners — has been incredible.
They understand the situation. They see the effort. And they’re backing the team.
There’s a connection building again, something that had been missing for a while.
You can feel it on matchdays.
The Reality We Can’t Ignore
For all the positivity on the pitch, there’s a shadow hanging over everything we do. The finances.
Despite a strong summer in terms of sales, the net debt has risen again.
£1.75 billion.
That number changes everything.
It means:
This isn’t just about football.
It’s about survival.
Where We Are Right Now
We’re performing at a level that suggests we belong at the top of this league.
We’re competing with Europe’s best and holding our own.
We’re rebuilding trust with the supporters.
But we’re also still:
This season was never going to be normal. But if these first twelve games have shown me anything…
It’s that this group isn’t just here to compete.
They’re here to fight.
The Second Half FM
Mid-Season Crossroads – Keeping Our Stars
By Joe Brookes
We’ve reached the beginning of February, and for the first time this season, I feel like I can properly take stock of where we are. Not just the results, not just the performances — but the bigger picture. Because this point in the season is always where things shift. Early momentum either fades… or it becomes something much more powerful.
Right now, I can feel this group leaning towards the latter.
League Form (SkyBet Championship): Control and Authority
If I’m being honest, this is exactly what I expected from this squad.
Not hoped for — expected.
Current Position
3rd place
Played: 30
Won: 26
Drawn: 2
Lost: 2
Goals Scored: 98
Goals Conceded: 22
Points: 60
Take away the points deduction, and we’re not just in a promotion race — we’re dominating the league.
We’ve been relentless:
The gap in goals alone says everything. Birmingham, the next closest side, are on 64 — we’re miles ahead. We’re currently six points behind them, but I don’t see that as a concern. I see it as a target.
And with the way we’re playing, I’m convinced we’ll close that gap and secure automatic promotion. It’s no longer a question of if — it’s when.
A Performance That Defined Us
There are always games in a season that say more than the table ever could.
For us, that was the 8-1 win over Wrexham at Stamford Bridge. It wasn’t just the scoreline — it was the response.
A few weeks earlier, they frustrated us, held us to a 0-0, and made the game ugly. We didn’t deal with it well enough that day. But at home? We were ruthless.
We controlled every moment, punished every mistake, and showed exactly what happens when this team plays with confidence and purpose. That performance wasn’t just about three points.
It was a statement.
Cup Progress: Learning and Moving Forward
Carabao Cup
Our exit to Brentford still lingers in the back of my mind. It was early in the season, I rotated heavily, and we paid for it. At a club like Chelsea FC, those decisions are always magnified.
It was a reminder — there’s no such thing as a “less important” game here.
FA Cup
We entered in the third round and progressed comfortably.
A 4-2 win over Sheffield Wednesday with a heavily rotated side, but what pleased me most wasn’t the scoreline — it was the control.
Thirty shots to their six. Dominant possession. Complete authority over the game.
That’s the standard, regardless of who’s on the pitch.
Champions League
This competition continues to surprise me.
League Phase Finish
7th place
Played: 8
Won: 5
Drawn: 2
Lost: 1
Goals: 17 scored, 8 conceded
Points: 17
We’ve qualified automatically for the knockout stages.
Let that sink in.
A Championship side… in the last 16.
The only defeat came against FC Barcelona at the Camp Nou — and even then, we matched them for large parts of the game. The difference? They took their chances. We didn’t. At this level, that’s everything.
But what it showed me is this:
Injuries: Disruption and Opportunity
Injuries are part of football — I don’t like to dwell on them. But that doesn’t mean they don’t test you.
Pedro Neto’s fractured leg was a significant blow. He had been a key part of our attacking play:
And then there’s Estevão. At just 18, he’s been exceptional:
Losing him for five weeks wasn’t ideal, especially given the form he was in.
But I’ve always believed in looking at these moments differently. Injuries don’t just take players out — they create opportunities.
And so far, the squad has responded exactly how I would want.
January Transfer Window: Holding Firm
This window was always going to be quiet.
The transfer ban made that decision for us in terms of incomings — but outgoings were still in my control.
And I made a very clear call:
There was interest:
All rejected.
Cucurella wasn’t happy — and I understand that. Opportunities like that don’t come around often. But we had an honest conversation. He’s agreed to reassess in the summer.
Right now, the focus is here.
Dressing Room Dynamics: Managing Success
Success brings its own challenges.
Overall, the atmosphere in the dressing room is excellent. The players are aligned, focused, and pushing in the same direction. But there are always situations to manage.
Enzo Fernández has made it clear he’s interested in a move to Saudi Arabia. Financially, it’s a huge opportunity for him.
But from my perspective, it’s simple. He’s under contract. He’s vital to this team. And he’s not leaving.
He wasn’t happy with that decision — but leadership isn’t about making everyone comfortable. It’s about doing what’s right for the club.
Cucurella’s situation is different. He’s been professional, patient, and willing to wait.
That’s all I can ask.
Are We on Track?
If I’m being honest — we’re not just on track.
We’re ahead.
Promotion is no longer a distant goal — it’s firmly within reach.
The title is a real possibility.
And we’re competing in Europe at a level no one expected.
This team hasn’t just adapted to the circumstances.
It’s risen above them.
A Season That’s Gaining Momentum
I remember Boxing Day — December 26th — as a real turning point.
That was when it felt like something clicked. We weren’t just chasing anymore. We were competing.
And now?
We’re hunting the top.
The Real Challenge Now
The football is the easy part. The real challenge is what comes next.
Because now we have:
And with that comes pressure.
The focus now isn’t just on winning games — it’s on:
We’ve built something strong here. But at this stage of the season, that’s not enough.
Now it’s about holding onto it.
Because if we can…
There’s something very special waiting at the end of this road.
The Second Half FM
Run-In – Automatic Promotion On The Horizon
By Joe Brookes
Seven games remain.
It’s a strange feeling, knowing how far we’ve come in such a short space of time. At the start of the season, everything felt uncertain — the points deduction, the expectations, the pressure from all angles. Now, as we head into the final stretch, there’s a different energy around the place. There’s belief, but also an understanding that nothing has been achieved yet.
League Form: Turning Pressure Into Opportunity
We currently sit 2nd in the table after 39 games:
32 wins, 4 draws, 3 losses
116 goals scored
30 conceded
80 points
Looking back to the start of the season, I set a target of reaching 80 points after the deduction. At the time, it felt ambitious — something we’d have to be near perfect to achieve. The fact we’ve already hit that mark with seven games still to play says everything about this group.
We’ve not just competed — we’ve set the standard.
We remain the best attacking side in the league and the strongest defensively. More importantly, we’re now firmly in control of our own fate. We sit three points clear of Norwich in 3rd, five behind Birmingham in 1st, and crucially, we still have a game in hand.
What once felt impossible is now very real.
February: A Necessary Reality Check
That said, the last couple of months haven’t been perfect.
February, in particular, tested us in ways we perhaps hadn’t experienced earlier in the season. We only managed to win three of our six league games, and it served as a reminder of how unforgiving this league can be if your levels drop, even slightly.
The defeat away at Coventry stands out more than any other.
It was one of those games that leaves you frustrated long after the final whistle. We completely dominated every aspect:
And yet, we lost 3-1.
Those are the kind of results that can derail a season if you let them. Sánchez had a difficult afternoon, reflected in his 5.70 rating, but I’ve never been one to single out individuals. These moments happen, and what matters is how you respond.
Thankfully, the players responded in the right way.
Key Players Stepping Forward
As we’ve moved into the most important phase of the season, certain players have taken on even greater responsibility.
Jamie Gittens has been outstanding. His performances have lifted us in crucial moments, and his average rating of 7.56 reflects just how influential he’s been. He’s not just producing numbers — he’s dictating games.
Alongside him, Cole Palmer continues to be the creative heartbeat of the team. Seventeen assists now, and it feels like he’s involved in almost everything we do going forward. When games become tight, he’s the one who finds the solution.
These are the players you rely on when the pressure increases — and they’ve delivered.
The Cups: From Rotation to Real Opportunity
Our journey in the domestic cups has been mixed, but there’s now a genuine opportunity in front of us.
The Carabao Cup exit to Brentford still lingers as a disappointment. I made changes to manage the squad, and ultimately, we paid the price. At a club like Chelsea FC, those decisions are always scrutinised — and rightly so.
In the FA Cup, though, we’ve found momentum.
We’ve progressed to the quarter-finals, navigating past Sheffield Wednesday and Portsmouth in games where we controlled proceedings from start to finish. But the standout result came against Liverpool FC. A 3-1 win, against a side of that quality, showed exactly what this group is capable of when everything clicks.
Now, with Shrewsbury up next, there’s a growing sense that this competition could become something far more significant for us.
European Nights Continue
The Champions League campaign continues to feel surreal.
To be managing a Championship side and still competing at this level is something I don’t think will ever feel normal. But the players have embraced it.
Our tie against Atalanta BC in the last 16 was as professional a performance as we’ve produced all season. A 3-0 win away from home set the tone, and the 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge ensured there were no late scares.
Now, we face Liverpool FC once again — this time on the European stage.
It’s another challenge, but at this point, I don’t think anyone in that dressing room fears what’s ahead.
Youth Development: Building for the Future
Josh Acheampong’s development has been steady and encouraging.
With 10 starts and 12 appearances from the bench, he’s been relied upon more than perhaps even he expected at the beginning of the season. His average rating of 6.95 reflects a player who is still learning, but also one who can be trusted when called upon.
He’s spent this season surrounded by experienced players like Reece James, Wesley Fofana, and Marc Cucurella — and that exposure will be invaluable for his long-term development.
For now, he’s a dependable option. In the future, he could be much more.
The Fans: Belief Restored
The supporters have been outstanding.
Not just in moments of success, but throughout the entire journey. They’ve seen the setbacks, the uncertainty, the financial concerns — and they’ve stayed with the team.
Now, there’s a genuine connection again.
You can feel it in the stadium, in the way the players respond, in the energy around the club. That belief has grown week by week, and as we approach the final stretch, it could make all the difference.
The Financial Reality
Despite everything happening on the pitch, the financial situation continues to cast a shadow.
The debt has now climbed beyond £1.8 billion, and it feels like it increases every time I look at it. It’s a constant reminder that success on the pitch isn’t just about trophies or promotion — it’s about survival.
The only way forward, at least for now, is simple:
Anything less, and the consequences could be severe.
Breaking Into the Top Two
February 24th marked a turning point.
For the first time this season, we broke into the automatic promotion places. It was a moment that validated everything we’ve been working towards. I said not long before that I believed we could get there — and the players proved it.
But getting there is one thing.
Staying there is another.
The Final Push
Seven games.
That’s all that remains between us and promotion.
This is where everything we’ve built will be tested:
We’ve done the hard part by putting ourselves in this position.
Now comes the hardest part of all — finishing the job.
Because after everything this club has been through this season…
We cannot let this slip.
The Second Half FM
End of Season Review – When A Plan Comes Together
By Joe Brookes
There are moments in football where everything just clicks — where all the planning, all the pressure, and all the uncertainty finally come together into something real.
This season was one of those moments.
Not just for me, but for everyone connected to this club.
League Standings
We finish the season as champions.
That alone would be enough for most clubs, but when you add the context of everything we’ve faced this year, it becomes something far greater:
We clinched the title on the final day with a composed 2-0 win over West Brom, and as the whistle went, there was a real sense of fulfilment. At the start of the season, I said this squad was capable of hitting 100 points without the deduction — the fact we’ve done it with the deduction says everything about this group.
Throughout the year, we’ve been the benchmark. We scored more than anyone else, conceded less than anyone else, and in truth, we looked a level above the rest of the league for most of the campaign.
Individually, there were standout performers too. Benoît Badiashile led the league with a 7.44 average rating, while Cole Palmer’s creativity was unmatched, finishing with 20 assists. These aren’t just good numbers — they’re title-winning contributions.
Cup Progress
Cup competitions often tell you more about a team’s mentality than league form ever can — and this year, they revealed just how strong this group really is.
Carabao Cup
Our journey ended early with a 2-0 defeat to Brentford. At the time, I rotated heavily to manage the schedule, and looking back, it’s something I take responsibility for. It was a lesson in balance — one I’ve carried with me ever since.
FA Cup
The FA Cup, though, became something much bigger.
What started as a relatively straightforward run quickly turned into a gauntlet. Wins over Liverpool FC and Tottenham Hotspur showed the level this team can reach when everything clicks.
Then came the final against Manchester City.
Losing Reece James just before the game was a huge blow. As captain, he’s the heartbeat of this team, and his absence could have unsettled us. Instead, it brought clarity.
I made it clear to the players what this game meant — not just in footballing terms, but financially. Without European football, the situation at this club could have become unsustainable. The weight of that reality was heavy, but the players didn’t shy away from it.
They embraced it.
What followed was one of our most disciplined and focused performances of the season, as we secured a 1-0 win at Wembley. That victory wasn’t just about lifting a trophy — it was about securing the club’s immediate future.
Champions League
Our European journey ended in the semi-finals, and despite the disappointment, it’s something I look back on with immense pride.
We were beaten 1-0 on aggregate by FC Barcelona, and across both legs, there was very little between the sides. At that level, it often comes down to moments — and unfortunately, they went against us.
But what we proved along the way is what matters most.
We went toe-to-toe with some of the best teams in Europe, including a dominant 7-4 aggregate win over Liverpool FC. That result alone showed that this squad belongs on the biggest stage.
If anything, this campaign has confirmed what I already believed — we have a group capable of achieving something truly special.
Stand Out Players
Every successful season is built on individuals stepping up when it matters most — and this group has delivered that in abundance.
Player of the Year – Benoît Badiashile
From the very beginning, he set the standard:
At a time when we needed stability, he became the foundation. Calm on the ball, dominant in the air, and consistently reliable — he didn’t just fill a gap in the squad, he made the position his own. Going into next season, he’s made my decisions far more difficult, and that’s exactly what I want.
Young Player of the Year – Jamie Gittens
Breaking into this squad is no easy task, but he’s done it through sheer consistency and impact:
He’s added unpredictability to our attack — direct, fearless, and constantly improving. What’s impressed me most is how quickly he’s developed his decision-making. He’s no longer just exciting — he’s effective.
Top Goal Contributor – Cole Palmer
Cole has a unique ability to influence games in key moments. Even in matches where things aren’t flowing, he finds a way to produce something decisive. In a different season, with tighter games, his numbers could have been even higher.
Manager’s Special Mention – Alejandro Garnacho
There were questions when he arrived. There aren’t any now:
He’s been outstanding. Direct, productive, and consistent — he’s become one of the first names on the team sheet and a player we now rely on.
Youth Progress
Josh Acheampong’s development has been exactly what this club is built on moving forward:
He’s handled the step up well. There have been moments where he’s had to adapt quickly, but that’s part of the process. He’s learning from top-level players every day, and that exposure is invaluable.
Next season will be crucial for him — whether that’s continuing to grow here or gaining experience elsewhere, we’ll make that decision carefully.
Fan Reaction
From day one, the supporters have been behind us.
Considering everything they’ve been through — the ownership turmoil, the financial uncertainty, the relegation — their backing has been incredible. Now, there’s a genuine connection again. You can feel it in the stadium, in the atmosphere, in the way the team responds on the pitch. And they deserve everything we’ve given them this season.
Financial Outlook
Despite all the success on the pitch, the financial situation remains a serious concern.
Net Debt: £1.64 billion
We’ve made progress, but not enough.
The reality is, the scale of the problem is huge, and it’s not something that can be fixed in a single season. Every decision we make moving forward will need to balance performance with sustainability.
That challenge doesn’t go away.
If anything, it becomes even more important now.
Did We Meet Board Expectations
When the season started, the board set clear objectives.
Looking back, we’ve delivered — and then some:
That final target is the one that lingers.
Because while success on the pitch buys time, it doesn’t solve everything.
Final Thoughts
This season was about proving something.
Proving that this club could still compete.
Proving that this group of players could deliver under pressure.
Proving that there is a future here worth fighting for.
We’ve taken a huge step forward.
But we’re not finished.
Not even close.
JJMezza
Can you share the database you are using? Love this idea.
The Second Half FM
Season Kick-Off – Champions League or Bust
By Joe Brookes
Last season was about survival — steadying a club that was on the brink and proving that, even under impossible circumstances, we could still compete.
This season feels very different.
We’re back in the Premier League, but simply returning isn’t enough. Not for a club of this size, not for a squad of this quality, and certainly not for the financial position we find ourselves in. There’s an underlying pressure now that didn’t exist in quite the same way last year — because this time, failure has far greater consequences.
The Stakes Have Changed
The board have laid out their expectations clearly, and on the surface, they seem ambitious but achievable: a top 7 finish, quarter-finals in both Europe and the domestic cups, £75 million in player sales, and a reduction of the debt to £1.3 billion.
But the reality goes beyond those targets.
Finishing in the top 7 might satisfy the board, but it won’t solve our biggest problem. Without Champions League football, the financial situation remains fragile at best. That’s the truth of it. The margins we’re working with are incredibly fine, and while progress is being made, it’s not happening quickly enough to give us any real security.
So while the targets are there in black and white, everyone inside the club understands the unspoken objective.
We have to qualify for the Champions League.
A Transfer Window of Restraint
For the second consecutive season, the transfer ban has dictated our approach.
No new signings. No fresh faces to raise the level or add depth. Just the same group of players, expected to go again — this time at a higher level.
In some ways, that brings clarity. There are no distractions, no bedding-in periods, no unknowns. I know exactly what I have, and more importantly, I know what they’re capable of.
We did, however, make progress in trimming the squad. Three permanent departures brought in £107 million, and a further 16 players were sent out on loan. That was just as important — reducing the wage bill while giving younger players opportunities to develop elsewhere.
The three departures were:
It wasn’t a dramatic window.
But it was a necessary one.
The Gamble
Where this window truly defined us wasn’t in the players we sold — it was in the ones we didn’t.
We turned down serious offers. The kind of offers that could have significantly reduced the debt and eased the pressure surrounding the club.
Interest came from Bayern Munich for Enzo Fernández, from Tottenham Hotspur for Malo Gusto, and repeatedly from Juventus FC for several of our key players. There was even a bid from FC Barcelona for Wesley Fofana that, frankly, didn’t come close to reflecting his value.
And then there was the biggest test — £105 million for João Pedro.
That one made me pause.
Because in purely financial terms, it made sense. It would have given us breathing room, flexibility, maybe even a degree of safety.
But football decisions can’t always be made on balance sheets alone.
I’ve made a conscious decision to back this group — to keep the core of the squad together and take a calculated risk. Because I genuinely believe that keeping these players gives us the best possible chance of achieving what we need to this season.
If we get into the Champions League, it justifies everything.
If we don’t… then next summer becomes a very different conversation.
Identity Remains
One thing that hasn’t changed is how we play.
The 4-2-3-1 system served us incredibly well last season, and there’s no reason to move away from it. In possession, it naturally shifts into a 4-3-3, giving us control in midfield while allowing our attacking players the freedom to rotate and create.
At the heart of it all is Enzo Fernández.
His role in this system can’t be overstated. He’s the link between defence and attack, the player who dictates tempo, who decides when we accelerate and when we slow things down. Everything we do flows through him.
Around him, the structure is clear:
Caicedo provides the balance and defensive stability
Palmer operates between the lines, unlocking defences
The wide players drift inside, becoming goal threats rather than just creators
Last season, our goals came from everywhere, and that unpredictability made us very difficult to defend against.
That’s something I want to carry forward.
Selection Headaches – The Good Kind
For the first time since I’ve been here, I’m dealing with genuine competition for places.
Not just squad depth — real, high-level decisions.
In goal, Sánchez remains my number one, but Mike Penders will get his opportunities, particularly in the cup competitions.
Defensively, the return of Levi Colwill creates a real dilemma. Benoît Badiashile was exceptional last season — arguably our best player — and now I have to decide how to fit them both in, or whether one misses out.
That’s not a problem.
That’s a privilege.
Elsewhere, the structure is more settled. Reece James, when fit, is one of the best in his position. Fofana and Cucurella provide consistency, and in midfield, the partnership of Enzo and Caicedo gives us control.
In attack, though, things are far less certain.
Geovany Quenda has started the season just ahead of Estevão, but the gap between them is minimal. Performances will dictate selection, and that’s exactly how it should be.
Competition raises standards.
And we’ll need those standards to be as high as possible this season.
A New Face, A New Opportunity
This year’s youth promotion is Reggie Walsh.
He’s had a taste of first-team football before, but this season represents his real opportunity to establish himself within the squad.
He’ll primarily act as cover in the attacking midfield role, but what I like about him is his versatility. He understands the game well enough to operate deeper when needed, which gives us flexibility.
I won’t rush his development.
But I won’t protect him from it either.
He’ll play his part this season — and how big that part becomes is entirely up to him.
Targets That Define Everything
Personally, I’ve set very clear objectives.
We have to qualify for the Champions League. That’s non-negotiable — not just for sporting reasons, but for the future of the club.
I also want to win the Europa League. It’s a competition this club has history in, and it offers an alternative route into the Champions League if the league campaign doesn’t go as planned.
And finally, I want proof that what we built last season translates to this level. Whether that’s finishing with the best attack or the best defence, it’s about maintaining an identity and showing that our success wasn’t just situational.
It was sustainable.
A Familiar Concern
Reece James’ injury is a reminder that not everything is within our control.
Another hamstring issue. Another spell on the sidelines.
Two months without him at the start of the season is far from ideal, especially given how important he is to the way we play.
But it also reinforces why we made certain decisions in the transfer window.
Why we kept Malo Gusto.
Why depth matters.
Because over the course of a season like this, setbacks are inevitable.
It’s how you respond to them that defines you.
No More Safety Nets
Last season, we were chasing something — fighting to overcome a deficit, to prove a point, to rebuild.
This season, the pressure feels heavier.
Now we have something to lose.
Our place in the league.
Our best players.
The progress we’ve made.
There’s no safety net this time. No margin for error.
Because the reality is simple, and it underpins every decision I’ve made this summer:
Champions League football isn’t just the objective.
It’s survival.
The OG KiKo
Second this.
Great start to the save and a fun idea. FM26 needs help and creative stuff like this definitely helps.
SKP16
Hey man, great idea! Would love to do my own version of this as a Chelsea supporter, would you be open to sharing the starting database?
oasis84
Hi, this is excellent, as a Chelsea supporter I would love to play this database if you haven't shared already?