Chelsea will need experienced players to be at the forefront and guide the younger talent next season. Realistically, fans cannot expect the Blues to win major silverware next term, though they can expect the club to lay down the foundation for young stars to come through the ranks. The following are two players who are likely to be playing their final season at Stamford Bridge next term.
1. Olivier Giroud
Had the transfer ban not been in place, it is likely that the Blues would have not triggered the option to keep Giroud for a further season. As thing stand, it is uncertain whether Gonzalo Higuain will remain at the club beyond this summer. This could mean that Giroud could end up being the only experienced specialist striker in the team. The Frenchman did not get regular game time in the Premier League during the past season but was an important part of the Europa League triumph as he scored 11 goals from 14 appearances in Europe’s second-tier club competition. Giroud may be past his prime but he will have an important role to play for the West Londoners next season.
2. David Luiz
Luiz was a key part of the Blues defence this past season. He, along with Antonio Rudiger, was used as first-choice centre-back throughout the season. Luiz signed a new two-year contract with the Blues in May. At 32 years old, he still has a lot left in him and may have to play a big role for the club next season on and off the field. If however, his body ends up giving up on him or he ends up being overlooked in favour of a younger centre-back, next season could end up being his final one with the Blues. It remains to be seen if Andreas Christensen will be favoured over Luiz next season.