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      Brains behind Chelsea’s famous academy for 20 years QUITS in ‘insane blow’ with Blues fans ‘worried’

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      CHELSEA fans are devastated amid news academy director Neil Bath has left the club.Bath, 58, has been manager of the Blues’ academy set-up since 2004.Neil Bath, centre, is leaving Chelsea after 20 years as academy managerCredit: GettyMason Mount and Reece James are among the players brought through by Bath at ChelseaCredit: GettyHe played an integral part in bringing through the club’s young stars – a host of whom broke through into the first team.They included Reece James, Conor Gallagher, Trevoh Chalobah, Mason Mount, Tammy Abraham and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.This helped at a critical time for Chelsea as they had a transfer ban imposed on them, increasing the importance of academy talent.Jim Fraser, who joined Chelsea’s academy as a director shortly after Bath, is also set to leave.READ MORE ON ENGLANDAn official announcement is expected in the coming days.And fans are beside themselves after learning of club legend Bath’s departure.One passionate supporter said: “Neil Bath leaving Chelsea is an insane blow.”Look around the whole of Europe for the last decade, at the sheer amount of top level professional footballers that have come through his ranks.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”I thought his promotion a year ago was a positive thing, now I am worried.”People can argue about their differing views on ‘the project’ moving forwards, and everyone is entitled to their position. But this is just categorically a loss.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall posts goodbye video to Leicester fans and says ‘it’s time for me to go’ ahead of Chelsea transfer “The consistent evidence of success in Bath’s work is there for all to see. We don’t know the story yet, but damn.”While another added: “Nothing surprises me anymore. These clowns are tearing the club apart.”A third said: “A massive, massive loss. Possibly marks the end of Chelsea being a destination for elite scholar development.”Yet I fully expect the people who have been brainwashed by BlueCo’s empty promises to try and rationalise it as a good thing.”And a fourth responded: “Systematically removing all the components that made us worth £3bn is quite something.”Chelsea’s academy trophies over the last decade include five FA Youth Cups, two Under-18s Premier League titles, an U21 Premier League title and two UEFA Youth Leagues.Speaking about the Blues’ youth success, Bath previously said: “I will always say it is a wider effort from everybody involved.”There is a particular focus around scouting and coaching, and the coaches won’t succeed if the talent is not of the right level.”That is why the likes of Jim Fraser, Darren Grace and their recruitment team deserve credit for bringing in such talented players from a very young age.”That is a huge part of our development programme. On the other hand, you need the right coaches.””Fundamentally, it is about having good staff in all areas who work as a team.”READ MORE SUN STORIESEx-Chelsea boss Frank Lampard credited Bath for his impact when Mount and Abraham scored in the Premier League.Lampard said: “We had a couple of pints with Neil Bath!” More

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      My dad’s a former Chelsea star and Premier League cult hero, I’m making my own way after signing first professional deal

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      HARRY SIDWELL is following in his father’s footsteps as a professional footballer.The 18-year-old is the son of Premier League cult hero Steve Sidwell, 41.Harry Sidwell has penned his first pro deal at WimbledonCredit: AFC Wimbledon via Instagram / @harry.sidwell7He is a midfielder like his dadCredit: AFC Wimbledon via Instagram / @harry.sidwell7Harry was joined by dad Steve and mum KrysyCredit: AFC Wimbledon via Instagram / @harry.sidwell7Harry, who is a midfielder like his dad, has impressed playing for AFC Wimbledon’s Under-18s and he has now be rewarded with his first pro contract.His dad and mum Krysy were at Plough Lane as their eldest son put pen to paper on his new deal.On signing his first contract at the League Two side, Harry said: “To sign my first professional contract is a dream come true. “It’s what I’ve worked for, from an early age as a kid. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”All the sacrifices and all the hard work that have gone into it, has led to this, and now it’s here – I’m really happy.”His dad was also delighted as he posted on Instagram: “Really proud of you.”And there was messages of congratulations to Harry from the likes of Declan Rice, John Terry, Bobby Zamora and Jody Morris.Sidwell Snr came through the ranks at Arsenal before playing for clubs like Reading, Aston Villa, Fulham, Stoke and Brighton.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe also had a brief spell at Chelsea, playing 15 times in the 2007/08 season under Jose Mourinho.Sidwell even wore the No9 shirt at Stamford Bridge after surprisingly being offered it by the Special One. Former Chelsea ace Steve Sidwell reveals clause in Premier League stars’ contract that ‘nobody has ever exercised’ More

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      Enzo Fernandez apologises to Argentina coach after Chelsea ‘BLOCK him from Olympics’ – after Pochettino ‘gave the OK’

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      ENZO FERNANDEZ has revealed that new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has blocked him from going to the Olympics.The Argentina midfielder, 23, claims former manager and compatriot Mauricio Pochettino had agreed for him to play at the Paris games.Ex-Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino with Enzo FernandezCredit: PABut after he was replaced with Maresca, Chelsea have informed their midfielder, who is already playing at the Copa America this summer, that he cannot take part.Fernandez said: “I did everything possible.”Mauricio was at Chelsea before, he had given me the OK.”Then, there was a change of coach and the club changed its position.READ MORE IN football “I tried, I kept talking, I did everything possible to be there, but it wasn’t possible.”Argentina’s side will be managed by former Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano, though Lionel Messi has ruled himself out of taking part.Fernandez added: “I apologise to Masche. I wanted to be there. It didn’t happen.”As the Olympics are not a FIFA or UEFA event, clubs are not obliged to release their players.Most read in FootballMeet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo MarescaENZO MARESCA is considered among the most exciting young coaches on the planet.Born in Italy in 1980, he managed to guide Leicester to the Championship title in his first season as Foxes boss.His management career started at Italian minnows Ascoli before he was snapped up by Man City in 2020 to manage their Elite Development Squad.He guided the youth team to the Premier League 2 title in his one season working for the Citizens – with Cole Palmer in the side.His first senior job was with Parma but he was sacked after just a few months after failing to impress.Despite the team playing in Serie B and Maresca having an impressive squad he was unable to get them on course for promotion.He returned to Man City and worked as one of Pep Guardiola’s assistants for the 2022/23 season as they won the Treble.He took over relegated Leicester last summer and made an immediate impact, with the Foxes winning the Championship title.Maresca showed his dedication to the job by living at the training ground for the first two months after his appointment.He’s considered something of a Pep disciple and has said: “For a coach, it’s important to have the mentality of a chess player.”During his playing career he played under Carlo Ancelotti and Marcello Lippi – and alongside ex-Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSIn the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Brazil went all the way with Spain taking silver and Mexico the bronze. The likes of Antony, Richarlison, Dani Alves and Bruno Guimaraes all won gold medals.Chelsea’s top summer transfer targets More

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      Chelsea to sign Barcelona’s Marc Guiu, 18, as Blues trigger transfer release clause for star who has played just 7 times

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      CHELSEA are reportedly set to sign Barcelona prodigy Marc Guiu after triggering his release clause.The striker, 18, burst on to the scene for his Spanish club this season, scoring twice in seven senior appearances – including after 33 seconds on his debut.Marc Guiu is close to joining Chelsea after they triggered his £5million Barcelona release clauseCredit: GettyHowever, chances under new boss Hansi Flick may be limited as Barcelona look to add at least one new superstar forward.And AS claims Chelsea have now made their move for Guiu by triggering his £5million release clause.The Blues will discuss terms with the teen on a long-term contract.While a potential loan move to French sister club Strasbourg may also be in the works.READ MORE ON CHELSEAGuiu looks set to become Chelsea’s third signing of the summer after Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo and Palmeiras’ Estevao Willian, although the latter will not join until 2025.The Blues are also close to a £19m deal for Aston Villa striker Omari Kellyman.And they are also considering a £30m bid for Lille forward Jonathan David, who has 52 club goals in the past two seasons.New boss Enzo Maresca starts his role next week after leading Leicester to the Championship title.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThe Italian had been hoping to bolster his ranks with the £55m capture of Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise.But Chelsea pulled out of a move as Bayern Munich struck terms with the Frenchman.Poch in England frame The Londoners are still thought to be keen on landing a wide-man, although they will target a right-footer and not a left-footer.Lille man David can play on the flanks if needed.While a move for Athletic Bilbao and Spain star Nico Williams has already been deemed too expensive.As for outgoings, Ian Maatsen is on the cusp of a £37m move to Aston Villa.And Armando Broja is being chased by several European clubs following his dud loan spell at Fulham. More

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      Chelsea ready to splash almost £50m on little-known duo and plan to recoup £37m by flogging Maatsen to Aston Villa

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      CHELSEA are splashing yet more cash with £48million on little-known duo Omari Kellyman and Willian Estevao.Aston Villa’s attacking midfielder Kellyman, 19, is due for a medical next week ahead of signing a long term deal – up to six years.Omari Kellyman of Aston Villa is set to join Chelsea on a six year dealCredit: GettyEstevao Willian will cost the Blues an initial £29m up front and a further £25m in add-onsCredit: AFPIan Maatsen is set to leave Stamford Bridge for Aston Villa in a £37m dealCredit: PAIt comes as Chelsea officially announced a deal for Brazilian Estevao, who is only 17.That transfer is believed to be around £29m up front with a further £25m in add ons.Estevao, currently with Brazilians Palmeira, will not join until next summer when he turns 18.Estevao joins fellow countrymen Deivid Washington and Andrey Santos at Stamford Bridge as part of the latest influx of youth.Read more football newsKellyman cost Villa around £600,000 from Derby two years ago.He has made six first team appearances and is an Under-19 England international.Netherlands left back Maatsen is on duty with his country at Euro 2024 but after spending last season on loan at Borussia Dortmund is now set to join Villa for around £37.5m.Chelsea sporting director Paul Winstanley is also keen on Argentine defender Aaron Anselmino.According to reports, they have opened talks with the Boca Juniors wonderkid over a £13.4million transfer.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, that offer falls short of the £20million release clause in his contract.The moves come following Chelsea’s failed attempt to lure Michael Olise from Crystal Palace.SunSport’s Latest Transfer HeadlinesThe winger looked set to join the Stamford Bridge outfit in a £55million deal.But, the Frenchman decided against a move to West London, preferring to join Bayern Munich. More

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      Chelsea sold the ‘soul of the team’ by letting three stars go in transfer exits, claims legend Gianfranco Zola

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      GIANFRANCO ZOLA has claimed Chelsea sold the “soul of the team” by letting go of three stars last year.The Blues legend claimed this was the start of Chelsea’s struggles that they endured for most of the 2023-24 season.Gianfranco Zola revealed Chelsea let go of the ‘soul of the team’ by letting go of three players in 2023Credit: PA:Empics SportZola, 57, played for the Blues between 1996 and 2003 and made over 300 appearances for the club.And last term Chelsea ended their campaign sixth in the Premier League after a slight improvement in the second half of the season.But Mauricio Pochettino’s side did not have an easy start.According to Zola, selling Kai Havertz and Mateo Kovacic, who joined Arsenal and Manchester City respectively, was a bad decision for Chelsea.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLZola also added that Jorginho’s exit to Arsenal in January 2023 left the Blues without a leader.Zola told Ladbrokes: “Chelsea have had a hard season, especially at the beginning, but they changed a lot.”They put a lot of young players in place and lost a lot of experienced ones like Jorginho, Havertz, and Kovacic. They lost many players who were the soul of the team, the leaders, so it took time to get going.”But finally Pochettino got it working and it was working quite well. It was very surprising to see him leaving.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”And I don’t know the full reasons but obviously from a supporter’s point of view I am disappointed.”Despite Chelsea securing a spot in Europe after a dismal start to the season Pochettino headed out the door last month.Chelsea’s top summer transfer targetsWith a host of players arriving at Stamford Bridge last summer, it was inevitable it was going to take time for those players to settle in.And one who ended up thriving was Cole Palmer scoring 22 Premier League goals.Now for the Blues Enzo Maresca has taken charge in a five-year deal and there has been one new star already at the club after Tosin Adarabioyo made a free transfer from West London rivals Fulham.Chelsea sold Kai Havertz to Arsenal last summerCredit: PAThe Blues also sold Mateo Kovacic to Man CityCredit: PAJorginho left in January 2023 for ArsenalCredit: PA More

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      Chelsea ‘hold talks with Jonathan David’ as Todd Boehly ready to splash more cash on Lille striker

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      CHELSEA have held talks with Jonathan David’s representatives, according to reports.The Lille striker has been a long-term target for the Blues and could finally move to the Premier League this summer.Chelsea have reportedly held talks with Jonathan David’s representativesCredit: GettyDavid was keen to join an English club 12 months ago but ultimately remained at Lille.However, after scoring 26 goals across all competitions last season, Chelsea are ready to make their move.The Athletic report talks have taken place with the players’ representatives.David is said to be high on Chelsea’s list of attacking targets this summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMeanwhile, there is hope a reasonable fee can be agreed due to David entering the final year of his contract.Chelsea and Lille also have a good relationship, the report adds, although an approach to the Ligue 1 side has yet to be made.David’s 19 league goals last season were only bettered by top scorer Kylian Mbappe.He has also scored 26 goals in 48 caps for Canada, who he is currently on international duty with at the Copa America.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSPredominantly a striker, the 24-year-old can also play slightly behind the centre-forward and in attacking midfield.Prior to joining Lille in 2020, he also enjoyed a successful spell in Belgium with Gent.Meet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo MarescaManchester United are long-time suitors along with Chelsea, with Aston Villa, Arsenal and Atletico Madrid also linked with a move this summer.Elsewhere, Chelsea have already signed defender Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer from Fulham.The signing of teenager Estevao Willian has also been confirmed, with the Brazilian joining the Blues in 2025.However, Enzo Maresca missed out on Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise this week, with the winger set to join Bayern Munich instead. More

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      Tipped to be Slovenia’s greatest ever player, it’s little wonder Benjamin Sesko has Arsenal and Chelsea on red alert  

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      HE is the latest Bundesliga star to attract serious interest from the big boys of the Premier League.Once upon a time it was Erling Haaland. Now, Red Bull Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is the name on everyone’s lips, a supreme talent that is on every transfer wish list back in England.Slovenia’s Benjamin Sesko was tipped to move to the Prem before the EurosCredit: AFPThe 21-year-old has already made a name for himself in the BundesligaCredit: GettyArsenal and Chelsea – to name just a few – were hopeful of luring the 21-year-old to the bright lights of London this summer after netting 18 goals in all competitions last season, ready to trigger an appealing £55m release clause.But it says a lot about this young player’s mindset and maturity that he recently decided to sign a new long-term deal with Leipzig instead.There is a composure and an aura around the Slovenian which is hard to ignore. A self-confidence that his time in the Prem spotlight will come – just not yet.Not that the spotlight has avoided his towering 6ft5 stature over in Germany during the Euros, showing glimpses of why he is such a wanted man.read more on EnglandAs such, he is embracing Slovenia’s Group C showdown with England on Tuesday, a chance to pit himself against players he may well call teammates before too long.Speaking to SunSport, he said: “To be honest, with the pressure, I put it on the bright side.“It’s a good kind of pressure. If you have the opportunity where people can talk about you, doesn’t matter if it’s good or bad, there’s something about you and it means I have done something good in the past and people are talking about it.“I always put it on the bright side and I am happy to be a part of this.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“It’s definitely a good chance for me to play in this type of tournament. I’m really proud of myself to be a part of the team and be here and for the experience and the self-growth.“It’s really important for me and for my career in general. It’s been an amazing time and I’m looking forward to more of this.”SunSport’s Latest Transfer HeadlinesSlovenian journalists – who have covered Sesko’s journey ever since he took the plunge at the age of 15 to leave his home in a small village in Radece and join Red Bull Salzburg in 2019 before agreeing to join Leipzig last summer – are in awe of this kid.They happily admit they have never seen or met anyone like him – a unique presence matched with an eye-catching ability.Having scored 11 times in 31 caps, he is already tipped to be Slovenia’s greatest ever product, with many predicting he will soon eclipse Zlatko Zahovic’s national goalscoring record of 35 sooner rather than later.Sesko holds the country’s footballing hopes on his enormous shoulders. He added: “It’s good that I can be that. We have to know that I am still young and there will be plenty more games, tournaments, so I am always going to be there for the team.“Sometimes I am lucky, sometimes I am not. It is just about the position I am in at the moment. It’s my status. I always help my team as much as I can and do my best.”EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYHe is yet to find the net at his first major tournament, but came agonisingly close in Slovenia’s opening 1-1 draw with Denmark, smacking the post from range late on.Two points from two games sees Slovenia needing an unlikely result against the Three Lions to stand any chance of reaching the last 16 in their first Euros campaign for 24 years.Sesko’s impressive conviction shines through again when asked what he thinks of England’s stuttering start in the Euros and whether Slovenia could catch them cold.He explained: “Yeah we definitely can. They know that we have played two great games.“They’re not at their best. They are still doing great of course, but now is the best opportunity to play against them and show them the best we can do. I am sure we are going to shine.”Sesko admits to watching clips of England skipper and Bayern Munich man Harry Kane on his journey to becoming a top European goal-getter – not that he believes they are one of the same, having already sized him up in the Bundesliga this term.He said: “Every single season [Kane] scores plenty of goals and he is a great striker – a different type to me but still the position and what a striker needs.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He is a great example to learn from. It’s amazing that I am going to play against him and try to copy him in a couple of positions.“I watch him, I watch a lot of strikers and try to learn from them and hope to learn from him too.” More