The arrivals of Timo Werner and Kai Havertz at Stamford Bridge last summer had Chelsea fans overjoyed. Then Blues manager Frank Lampard was given free rein of Roman Abramovich’s purse strings and he splurged £50 million on Werner before splashing a further £72m on Havertz.
Having scored 95 goals in 159 games across four seasons for RB Leipzig, Werner arrived in west London with a reputation of being a prolific goalscorer. However, the 25-year-old has left a lot to be desired this season on that front. In fact, he has managed just six goals in 32 Premier League appearances.
Havertz has had similar struggles. The 21-year-old’s double in Chelsea’s recent 2-0 victory against their local rivals Fulham brought his Premier League goal tally to just four strikes in 25 league games.
It would be unfair to say they have both been terrible this season, as that’s not the case. At times, yes, they have looked well below par. However, they have shown on several occasions — like against Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals — that they are up to the task. The problem is, they haven’t performed to the standard expected of them on a consistent enough basis.
Werner and Havertz have both shown glimmers of their class and why they were brought to Chelsea for such hefty fees. They have been given the benefit of the doubt a lot this season. Both moved away from the Bundesliga for the first time in their respective careers, and there’s no doubt that the Premier League is a much tougher fish to fry.
Next Season will be key for the German Duo at Chelsea
The task the German duo face now is proving everyone wrong next season. However, that is easier said than done. It has been said a lot this campaign that they need a while to settle into English football. But if they come out next season and fail to perform, then there really will be no more excuses.
Without a doubt, there will be pressure on their shoulders, especially with fans allowed back into Stamford Bridge. Throughout this season, fans may have cut them some slack. But, if they are still fluffing their lines next season, we’re sure the Chelsea fans will make their frustrations known.
Edouard Mendy has faith in Werner and Havertz
Nonetheless, fellow Chelsea newbie Edouard Mendy — who has helped the Blues become more favourable in the UEFA Champions League winner odds since being brought in from French Ligue 1 side Rennes last summer — is ‘100 per cent’ confident that they will come out firing next season, claiming that he knows how good they really are having worked with them day-in, day-out.
“They are really good players,” Mendy said speaking to Chelsea’s official website. “They are young players and it is the first time that they have moved to another country. I think they needed a couple of months to adjust and understand the Premier League but I see them every day and I know how good they are.
“I am happy for them. They showed their qualities on the pitch. Next season, 100 per cent, we will see the best of Timo and Kai. Even this year, we have enjoyed their good levels of performance and they are important for us.”
Yes, they needed time to settle, but they have had almost a full season to adapt to life in England. It’s hard to really know if we will see the true Werner and Havertz next season. But we’re sure Chelsea fans are certainly hoping so!