Chelsea’s presence at the World Cup is far lower than many expected it to be, however Jarell Quansah is tipping one of their transfer targets to be one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
The likes of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo will still be crucial players for their nations, however the dominant story have been those who have been left out.
Joao Pedro was inexplicably left out of the Brazil squad, with Estevao Willian also not present due to his injury woes.
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Xabi Alonso's priority as Chelsea manager
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Chelsea target Ibrahim Maza tipped to be breakout star of World Cup
Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill were both not selected by Thomas Tuchel, with many England fans left concerned at the defensive options in the squad.
One of those in the squad is Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah, who has spent the season featuring alongside Ibrahim Maza.
Bayer Leverkusen vs RB Leipzig - 1.Bundesliga
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Maza has emerged on Chelsea’s radar this season after an excellent first campaign with the Bundesliga side, and Quansah told the Bundesliga’s TikTok page that he believes he will be the breakout star of the World Cup.
He will be representing Algeria, who face off against Fernandez’s Argentina during the group stages. There will also be a warmup friendly against Jorrel Hato’s Netherlands.
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Maza’s excellent 2025/26 season
Despite being only 20 years of age, Maza has made 28 Bundesliga appearances this season for Xabi Alonso’s former side.
He scored three goals and five assists from an attacking midfield position, and did a good job replacing Florian Wirtz following his move to Liverpool.
Chelsea will be keen to hand Alonso the best chance of succeeding possible, and keeping a close eye on the World Cup in North America to see if any transfer targets stand out.
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