Chelsea has maintained an average possession rate of 59.4% this season, ranking sixth in the league. They’ve scored eight goals in their first four matches, trailing only Manchester City, which has netted 11 goals.
In their second game against Wolves, Chelsea scored six goals, highlighted by Noni Madueke’s hat-trick. Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson each contributed a goal, and João Félix also scored upon his return to Chelsea.
However, Chelsea has also conceded five goals in their first four matches, indicating ongoing defensive vulnerabilities. Maresca will need to address this issue if the team aims to secure a top-four finish.
Consequently, adjustments to the defensive lineup might be necessary for their upcoming match against London rivals West Ham United.
Axel Disasi’s game in numbers vs Bournemouth
In Chelsea’s latest match against AFC Bournemouth, Axel Disasi was substituted after 62 minutes, having lost both of his duels and given away possession nine times while playing in an unfamiliar right-back role.
The Frenchman struggled with composure on the ball, frequently opting for long clearances instead of trying to play it out from the back.
Given this situation, Chelsea has an ideal solution for the injuries to James and Gusto that can prevent Disasi from playing in an unfamiliar role, and it involves a creative approach.
Chelsea’s unorthodox solution at right-back
Moises Caicedo, Chelsea’s versatile midfielder, has been hailed as “magnificent” by Jacek Kulig and possesses the capability to play at right-back. During the 2022/23 season with Brighton, he filled that role three times, transitioning from right-back to midfield for Roberto De Zerbi’s team.
This strategy would enable Chelsea to maintain their approach of inverting the right-side fullback, similar to what they did with Gusto, thus keeping the team dynamic consistent. Caicedo brings essential attributes such as ball retention, passing skills, and quick recovery speed, which would allow him to effectively regain shape from the inverted position.
| Caicedo stats (24/25 so far) | |
|---|---|
| Stats (per 90 mins) | Caicedo |
| Progressive Carries | 1.32 |
| Progressive Carries | 3.68 |
| Passes Attempted | 60.8 |
| Pass Completion % | 89.6% |
| Passes into Final Third | 4.74 |
| Tackles | 3.42 |
| Blocks | 1.58 |
| Interceptions | 2.11 |
|
Stats taken from FBref |
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Caicedo brings progressive passing when he shifts into midfield, allowing him to receive the ball in tight spaces and play through the lines even under pressure. He also contributes defensively, averaging 3.42 tackles and 2.11 interceptions per 90 minutes, demonstrating his readiness to engage in defensive duties.
Utilizing Caicedo in this role would enable Chelsea to deploy an additional midfielder or attacker. For instance, with Caicedo moving centrally alongside Enzo Fernandez, there could be an opportunity to incorporate Christopher Nkunku as an advanced number eight.
It’s uncertain whether Maresca will implement this strategy on Saturday, but this tactical adjustment is definitely worth considering for the match at the London Stadium.
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