Mauricio Pochettino is yet to begin work at Chelsea but already bodies will be heading back to Cobham ahead of preparations for a new season. The Blues development and academy squads will be among the first players to return with arrivals staggered depending on international involvement, with the first members of the senior squad expected back in the opening days of July.
With Chelsea's rate of progress in the transfer market it is difficult to anticipate who will be present for Pochettino's first training session, never mind on the plane for the trip to the United States. Those involved in the Nations League and Euro 2024 qualifying are likely to have more time off, while Chelsea's stars who ended the season recovering from injury will be chomping at the bit to return to action to help the Blues to an improved season.
The early days of pre-season are set to include some intense fitness sessions but players will be keen to leave a good first impression on their new boss and to ensure they earn a seat on the plane to continue their role in Chelsea's preparations. Pochettino may be less open to including those with futures that lie away from the club due to his preference for a smaller squad.
