At Duelbits, we love speaking to players who’ve lived the game at the highest level, and Salomon Kalou is someone who knows exactly what it takes to win at Chelsea. With the club pushing deep into Europe and a new era taking shape under Rosenior, we caught up with the Champions League winner to get his thoughts on the squad, the standout performers, and where he thinks this team can go next. All this information can be used for soccer betting.
Chelsea had an impressive win against Napoli to make the Champions League Top 8, how far can they go in the competition?
Chelsea showed against Napoli that they can compete with anyone when the level is right. You look at the performances against Barcelona, Arsenal, Manchester City, even in difficult moments, they’ve shown they can rise to the occasion. When this team clicks, they’re a match for Europe’s best. They’re still young, still learning, but the potential is there. If they keep that intensity and belief, they can go very close to winning it.
Do you think they need to win the tournament to qualify for next season’s edition?
No, not at this stage. The Premier League is still their best route. Top four, maybe even top five, is realistic if they stay consistent. The league is what you’re judged on as a club like Chelsea. And with the way Rosenior has started, the structure he’s brought, I fancy their chances. They just need to stay focused on the basics and keep picking up points.
João Pedro scored two goals. Is he Chelsea’s best striker?
Yes, by far. He’s confident, he’s sharp, and he gives the team something different. He’s not just finishing chances, he’s linking play, pressing, creating space for others. You can see he’s enjoying his football, and when a striker is in that kind of rhythm, you have to ride the wave.
Enzo Fernández seems like he’s added goals to an already rounded game. Is he now in the world’s elite midfielders?
He’s reaching that level, yes. You can see the maturity in his game now — he’s dictating the tempo, he’s winning duels, and he’s arriving in the box with purpose. I just hope Chelsea hold on to him. He’s the leader of the team, and if he stays long enough, he can have the same influence Frank Lampard had. He’s that important.
What do you make of rumours linking Cole Palmer with a move to Manchester United?
There’s no way Chelsea can let him go. He hasn’t hit the same heights yet this season, but he’s still the best player in the squad on his day. He’s the one who can change a game with one moment. The club needs to build around him for years to come, not think about selling him.
Raheem Sterling has left the club by mutual consent. Why didn’t things work out for him at Stamford Bridge?
I actually thought he was very good in his first two seasons. He brought experience, goals, and leadership. But then something went amiss, maybe confidence, maybe the system, and once Maresca made up his mind early, it was difficult for Raheem to find his place again. He still has the talent, no doubt. He’ll be a good signing for another team.
Do Chelsea need a new goalkeeper?
Yes, maybe. They have a lot of goalkeepers on the books, but none who look ready to take the No. 1 jersey and make it their own. Maybe one of the youngsters like Mike Penders or Filip Jorgensen will develop into that role, but right now, experience could help. Someone like Emi Martínez, if he were available, would give them stability for a couple of years.
How impressed have you been with Liam Rosenior’s start as Chelsea manager?
I’ve been very impressed. He’s brought clarity, discipline, and a clear identity. You can see the players understand their roles now. Chelsea needed that, a coach who communicates well and brings calm to the project. If he keeps this up, he can build something long-term.
Do you think Chelsea are moving in the right direction overall?
Yes, I think they are, but with Chelsea you always have to be cautious. Things can look very positive and then a couple of bad results can change the whole atmosphere. That’s just the reality of a big club with big expectations. But the foundations are there, the squad is young, the manager has a clear idea, and the club is trying to stabilise. If they stay patient and keep building in the right areas, hopefully this time the progress won’t be disrupted.
What advice would you give young players coming through at Chelsea?
Stay humble, work hard, and listen. Chelsea is a big club, if you stay focused, the opportunities will come.
How do you see the Premier League title race shaping up after Arsenal’s defeat to Manchester United?
As always, it will come down to consistency. Manchester City have the experience, Arsenal have the hunger, and Aston Villa aren’t going away. It’s going to be tight, but the team that handles pressure in March and April will take it. I’d put my money on City if I was betting on it.
Which team has surprised you the most this season?
Aston Villa. They’ve built a strong identity under Emery, and they’re fearless. They deserve a lot of credit.
How proud were you of Ivory Coast’s AFCON run?
I was extremely proud. The team showed heart, resilience, and unity. To win the tournament at home, under that pressure, is something special.
Do you think African teams can challenge for the next World Cup?
Yes, absolutely. Morocco showed the way. Ivory Coast, Senegal, Morocco, the talent is there. What we need is continuity and strong preparation.
