Squad analysis EPL 2018-19: Chelsea
Chelsea could have an interesting phase ahead under new manager Maurizio Sarri. After their 0-2 loss in the Community Shield, the Blues gave a solid account of themselves in the Premier League opener against Huddersfield. Chelsea will hope to come strong as the season progresses and fight for a top four finish. Here we analyze the Blues squad.
The Blues have already switched to a 4-3-3 formation and it's the mid-field that could give opponents a run for their money. Sarri will make use of his versatile attack as well and play as per the side's strengths. Chelsea could develop into a force.
Chelsea scored three goals against Huddersfield. The crux of the attack depends on Willian, Eden Hazard and Pedro to create chances and also score when required. They have an able strike-force in Alvaro and the experience of Olivier Giroud. Both players need goals under their belt to get Chelsea going. Chelsea's lack of back-up in attack is an issue.
Hazard showed why he is the side's superstar after coming in the second half against Huddersfield and instantly creating a goal for Pedro. He has played over 200 games for the Blues and his impact in the league has been monumental.
N'Golo Kante is the engine of this side in tracking down players and making crucial interceptions and tackles. His abundance of energy often makes the difference. With Jorginho settling in, their partnership could do wonders. Cesc Fabregas is likely to join them in a three-man mid-field. Ross Barkley, Danny Drinkwater and Ruben Loftus-Cheek provide the depth.
Kante is their star man and he has been on top of his game since the last three seasons. He was exceptional for France in the FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia. Last season in the Premier League he made 113 tackles and 85 interceptions.
Chelsea have the required personnel in defense to keep them in games. Cesar Azpilicueta will be seen as a right-back this season with Zappacosta and Victor Moses adding depth in this position. The adventurous Marcos Alonso comes in as the left-back. In central defense Antonio Rudiger is a vital cog with the likes of Gary Cahill, David Luiz, Andreas Christensen providing back-up.
The likes of Rudiger, Alonso and Azpilicueta are Chelsea's go to assets at the back. If they are to do well as a side and keep intact, then the experience of the trio will come handy. All three bring a lot of character and finesse.
Chelsea were handed a blow when regular goal-keeper Thibaut Courtois left the club for Real Madrid. The club activated Athletic Bilbao keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga's release clause of a whopping €79 million. It remains to be seen how he adjusts to life in England and the League. Veterans Willy Caballero and Rob Green provide back-up but lack the precision and buzz to make a mark.
