Chelsea had a very successful 2025 after winning both the Club World Cup and Conference League.
They also finished fourth in the Premier League table in the 2024/25 season, qualifying for the current Champions League campaign as a result.
Individually, though, there were some real highs and lows for more than one member of Enzo Maresca’s squad.
Therefore, 2026 could be a really big year for some players at Chelsea, including one of their recent signings.
Jamie Gittens of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Chelsea
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Jamie Gittens
Jamie Gittens has shown glimpses of his talent at Chelsea since arriving from Borussia Dortmund.
While it was only a Carabao Cup tie, Gittens was phenomenal against Wolverhampton Wanderers. However, Chelsea fans are not completely convinced about the 21-year-old, so he has to try and win them over in 2026.
No Chelsea winger has put in a better performance than Jamie Gittens this season!
Disagree? Who and what game?
Chelsea star Jamie Gittens dribbling against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup.
Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images
Jamie Gittens’ numbers vs Wolves Total
Minutes 90
Goals 1
Assists 2
Big chances created 1
Key passes 4
Shots 2
Touches 70
Dribbles (successful) 12 (5)
Via Sofascore
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Tosin Adarabioyo
Last season, Tosin Adarabioyo looked like a really smart piece of business. He cost Chelsea nothing after signing from Fulham on a free transfer and did a good job whenever he came into the side.
However, his form has fallen off a cliff this term. The central defender needs to remind everyone again that he is capable of playing at this level.
Tosin Adarabioyo #4 of Chelsea FC celebrates scoring
Photo by Carl Recine – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Romeo Lavia
In terms of ability, Romeo Lavia has nothing to prove. He is one of the most press-resistant midfielders in world football.
The Belgian is excellent at receiving the ball under pressure before turning and playing a progressive pass. His problem is simply staying fit.
Romeo Lavia’s injury record could force Chelsea to sign a new midfielder in 2026. Who would you buy if Kobbie Mainoo isn’t available?
Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton have both been mentioned 👀
Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia preparing a pass and Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo jogging
Credit: Shaun Brooks – CameraSport/Catherine Ivill – AMA via Getty Images
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Lavia needs to do that in 2026 and show Maresca that he can be a reliable player for Chelsea.
Lavia was perhaps Chelsea’s biggest disappointment in 2025 because so much was expected of him after the games he was able to play. He excelled in those matches, such as the 2-1 win over Liverpool, but injuries have limited his impact. Ultimately, 2026 could be huge for Lavia, Adarabioyo and Gittens.
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