Chelsea Will Struggle To Keep Three Goalkeepers Happy - Why Jose Mourinho Has A Big Decision To Make

With Thibaut Courtois seemingly returning to Stamford Bridge for good after three years on loan at Atletico Madrid, Chelsea look set to have two world class goalkeepers competing for a place in the team.  Petr Cech is the man the Belgium international would have to displace, with veteran Mark Schwarzer no slouch either despite his role as back-up.  The London Evening Standard have reported that the situation means Chelsea’s Czech stopper may have to consider his options.

Barely 22 years of age, Courtois has an incredible wealth of experience for someone so young.  In domestic competitions alone he has won a Belgian Cup, Belgian Pro League title, Copa del Rey and La Liga title.  Europa League glory in 2012 was almost followed up with that in the Champions League last season, as Atletico were unlucky to lose to their city rivals in the final.

Despite a reputation for preferring maturity over youth, Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho could well hand Courtois a starting role for the Blues in the upcoming season.  Being 22-years-old would see most players dubbed as a ‘youngster’, but for goalkeepers it seems so much more significant due to the longevity of their careers.

It cannot be said that Chelsea do not currently have variety in their goalkeepers.  When Schwarzer turns 42 in October, there will be two decades between him and Courtois.  Cech will be 10 years either side of them, but will the Blues still have their happy medium?

Follow @_TonyDavies