There’s a reason why all managers, when it comes the end of a preparation match, comment on the fact that nobody got injured as a “great thing”. But it looks like a surge of bad luck has hit the two main contenders for last year’s title. And if in United’s case it’s only Ferdinand who has suffered a bit, it’s a lot more complicated for Chelsea.
First, injuries. Petr Cech has torn his groin and won’t be playing for next few weeks, or maybe even over a month. This means he’ll miss the first match of the season and all matches until that one. So “Don” Carlo now needs to turn to the bench and decide between Turnbull and Hilario.
Drogba has undergone surgery for a groin problem as well. He’ll be off the pitch for about three weeks. He’s had this injury for most of last season, but the surgery was only scheduled for this time.
Alex has also picked up an injury and won’t be playing for one month. This doesn’t look like much of a problem since that position is well covered by Carvalho and Terry. But there are rumors that Mourinho may want to reunite with Ricardo Carvalho in Real Madrid, and that would spell trouble.
And of course, there’s Deco. The Brazilian born Portuguese International wants to go back home, to Brazil, and play for Fluminense, who are top of the league right now. Many will say that he won’t be missed but with Ballack and Belletti already gone, that midfield is looking scarce.
But the major saga is with Arsenal and Fabregas. It’s becoming scandalous how Barcelona is pushing the transfer, in both the media and through their players and their technical staff. It gives one motive to ask Mr Platini is he’s paying attention.
With the deadline for transfers still set comfortably far away on the 31st of August there’s still a lot of room for improvement and for several twists and turns.
