Fresh from reflecting on Chelsea’s recent highs and lows, and with the Africa Cup of Nations fast approaching, former Ivory Coast international, Champions League winner Salomon Kalou and Duelbits Ambassador sat down to share his perspective on the state of the game. From Stamford Bridge’s new generation to the pride and passion of AFCON, Kalou offers a unique blend of insider insight and ambassadorial wisdom, speaking with the authority of a player who has lived both the triumphs and the challenges at the very highest level.
Chelsea put in an impressive performance against Arsenal at the weekend, but followed it up with a disappointing result against Leeds. What do you put that down to?
That’s the reality of football. Against Arsenal, Chelsea showed their quality and intensity, but consistency is the hardest thing for a young team to master. Leeds pressed well, made it uncomfortable, and Chelsea couldn’t find the same rhythm. It’s part of the learning curve, you have to deliver every week, not just in the big games.
Chelsea recently beat Barcelona 3–0 at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League. What did you make of that performance?
It was a statement win. Barcelona are always a big test, and Chelsea showed maturity and confidence. To score three goals and keep a clean sheet against that level of opposition says a lot about the progress this young team is making. Estevão’s goal was special, moments like that give fans belief that Chelsea can compete with anyone in Europe. Nights like these remind me of the big European occasions we had during my time at the club, and they show that Chelsea are building something strong again.
How soon do you think this young Chelsea team can challenge for the title?
If they continue on this trajectory, I believe next season they’ll be ready. The talent is there, the spirit is there, it’s just about building maturity and experience. With another year of growth, they can push for the Premier League crown.
What do you think the target for this season should be for Chelsea?
Top four has to be the priority. Securing Champions League football again, showing progress, and building confidence. That’s the foundation for future success.
Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo have formed a really good partnership in midfield, are they the best midfield duo in the Premier League?
Yes, I think so. They balance each other perfectly, Enzo with his vision and creativity, Caicedo with his energy and defensive strength. Together they give Chelsea control in the middle of the pitch, and that’s priceless.
Willian Estevão has looked sensational since he’s come in. He plays in a similar role to what you did, what have you made of his performances?
He’s been fantastic. You can see the confidence, the flair, and the fearlessness. He reminds me of myself when I first arrived, wanting to take on defenders, make things happen. He’s brought excitement back to Stamford Bridge.
How far can Estevão go in the game?
The very top. He has the talent to lead Brazil and Chelsea to glory. If he keeps working hard and stays grounded, he can become one of the best in the world.
Arsenal hold a fivepoint cushion in the Premier League, and are strong favourites to end their drought for a league title. Can you see anyone challenging them?
You can never rule out Manchester City, they have the depth and the experience. But right now, it looks like Arsenal’s to lose. They’ve built momentum and belief, and that’s powerful.
They’re also top of the Champions League table, albeit at an early stage. Who do you see as contenders for the European crown?
Chelsea. They’ve shown in the Club World Cup that they can beat anyone on their day. Of course, there are other strong teams, but Chelsea have the quality to go deep in Europe.
Onto the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament that you won with Ivory Coast, what does it mean to people across the African continent?
AFCON is pride. It’s identity. For Africans, it’s more than football, it’s culture, it’s community, it’s history. Every match feels like a celebration of the continent itself.
What makes it different to other international tournaments?
The atmosphere. The passion in the stadiums, the colors, the music, it’s unique. AFCON carries the heartbeat of Africa, and that energy is unlike anything else in world football.
You recently suggested South Africa could go far in the tournament, are they your tip to win it, or are there others you think can challenge?
There are always many contenders at AFCON. Morocco as hosts are worthy favourites, but losing Hakimi is a big blow. Egypt have Salah, but he hasn’t been at his usual level for Liverpool. Algeria look strong and balanced. Nigeria didn’t make the World Cup, but with Osimhen firing, plus Lookman, Iwobi, and Chukwueze all in form, they can beat anyone. It’s wide open, and that’s what makes AFCON so special.
What do Ivory Coast need to go all the way?
The midfield is very strong, Kessié, Sangaré, Fofana. They’re hard to break down. Diomande at Sporting Lisbon is exceptional, and Diallo brings real attacking threat. There are positives everywhere, and I think we’ll go very close.
Is there a dark horse that could surprise us?
I’ve said South Africa, and I’ll stick with Bafana Bafana. They’re great odds on Duelbits, and they have the spirit to shock people.
Which players do you think will stand out most at this year’s tournament?
Everyone knows Salah, Osimhen, Mbeumo, Mané, Mahrez, all huge names. But Ayoub El Kaabi is having a fantastic season in Greece, Amad Diallo is a joy to watch, and Iliman Ndiaye is another really exciting talent. Those are players I’d keep an eye on.
Of the young talent that will be on show, who should we look out for?
AFCON always shines a light on the next generation. Lamine Camara with Senegal is only 20 but already looks like a leader in midfield. Oumar Diakité from Ivory Coast is another exciting prospect, fearless, creative, and someone who can make a difference. Amad Diallo is still young and developing, but he has the flair to light up games. And Iliman Ndiaye brings that spark for Senegal too. These are players who can use AFCON as a stage to announce themselves to the world.
