London is Blue Dispatch #002

Football, Delicious Football

The World Cup final between Argentina and France was one for the ages, already ascending into the top spot of listicles breaking down the “10 Best World Cup Finals Ever.” Messi completed football and closed the book on the 🐐 debates. Mbappé scored a hat trick and showed he’ll want a shot at the crown too. And Salt Bae (yes, the Turkish chef who sprinkles salt flakes over $1000, 24-kart gold wrapped steaks facing wage theft lawsuits and National Labor Board complaints) made it onto the pitch for a series of photos perfect for a “10 Most Cringe Worthy Photos” listicle.

In more digestible World Cup content, look no further than Andres Cantor, the legendary Argentinian-American broadcaster, and his call at full-time. Peter Drury also captured the scene beautifully: “Lionel Messi has shaken hands with paradise… he climbs into a galaxy of his own.” And for a full-summary of the match and its importance for football, “We Are Wall Witnesses” by Brian Phillips for The Ring is worth the read.

And while a current Chelsea player didn't win the World Cup this year, next year's Women's World Cup in Australia could be where one of our many international Blues lift the trophy. 🤞

Chelsea, ICYMI

• To prepare for the return of Premier League football, Graham Potter’s side played a closed-door friendly against Brentford on Tuesday, December 22. The Blues won 5-1 and the word on the street is one silky German served up a hat trick. Let’s hope Havertz can replicate his performance on December 27 when Chelsea play Bournemouth.

• In the same friendly, Fofana came off with a knee injury, and everyone feared the worst. Wes later commented on an Instagram post about the reports saying “nothing bad champion.” We’re looking at another three to four weeks until the French defender is back in the side.

• The Chelsea Women take on Paris Saint-Germain in their final Champions League group stage match on Thursday, December 22. While both the Blues and the Parisians have secured their places in the knockout round, you’d imagine Emma Hayes would like her side to maintain their unbeaten record in Europe this season. Blue Royalty will have a match review up later this week.

• There are promotions underway at Cobham. Nizaar Kinsella reported on the updated leadership structure: Neil Bath is now Director of Football Development & Operations; Jim Fraser is now Head of Youth Development & Recruitment; and Jack Francis is now Academy Manager.

• “Here We Go” season is underway as Fabrizio Romano confirmed Chelsea signed David Datro Fofana from Molde for €12m. He’s reported the club’s negotiations for the 18-year-old Brazilian midfielder, Andrey Santos, is at an advanced stage.

• Sergio Agüero showing up on the pitch, in a kit, after Argentina’s victory over France in penalties didn’t go unnoticed by John Terry. He shared the following light hearted critique: “If [you’re] going to do it, at least go for it and put the shin pads and boots on.”

• In sadder news, former Chelsea player and manager Gianluca Vialli was hospitalized in his fight against cancer. Forza, Luca. We’re all behind you.

Back to London

72 days and we’re back in London for our first group trip with XL Tours since 2019 from March 3-8, 2023. We’re seeing healthy interest and are excited so many of you will make the journey with us.

You’ll get to see Chelsea play Dirty Leeds, Borussia Dortmund, and if we’re lucky, the Chelsea Women winning the Conti Cup Final at Selhurst Park. So book now to save your spot and join us and other listeners for pints, pies, and plenty of good times!

Bring on Boxing Day

That’s it for our second edition of the London is Blue Dispatch. Please keep the comments coming and let us know what you’d like to see from the newsletter! From everyone at the pod, we wish you and your family (even ones who mistakenly support Arsenal, Liverpool, and *shudder* Tottenham) happy holidays, filled with friends and family and festive gatherings with those you hold dear. Oh, and for Chelsea to batter Bournemouth.

And, since I have the honor of writing once more, here are a few more pop culture recommendations.

Watch: “Glass Onion” (Netflix), “The Banshees of Inisherin” (HBO).Listen: Experts in a Dying Field by The Beths (Apple Music, Spotify), Palomino by First Aid Kid (Apple Music, Spotify).

Keep the Blue Flag Flying High,

Dan