The Blues have been improving since Gameweek 1 in the Premier League this season and at the head of their hike to the top has been new manager, Enzo Maresca. The Italian has been very effective in implementing his own tactical strategy at Chelsea so far, but what progress have they made and how far can they go?
16 goals in 7 games and currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, many have been surprised by Maresca's start in blue. Criticising his coaching ability and quality of backing room staff, fans were slightly sceptical from the moment he signed the contract.
But so far so good, as Chelsea are in the best league position since the change in ownership two years ago. But what has changed this Chelsea side from shipping goals away to the likes of Wolves and Everton last season, to being an actual 'real deal'?
After a very mediocre pre-season in the USA - 1 win, 2 draws and 3 losses - Maresca was coming into the season with probably a bit more pressure than he would have liked, especially with the first game of the 24/25 season at home to the previous champions.
Although the Blues were beaten 2 - 0 by Manchester City, they haven't been beaten since, winning four and drawing two in the Premier League.
Almost instant progress is something the Chelsea board are relieved about after many dead ends and wrong turns with different managers in the past few years. It's still somewhat unbelievable that the 2021 Champions League winners are playing in the Conference League just three years later.
A fairly obvious reason is due to the pure footballing ability of Cole Palmer.
It goes without saying that Palmer has been the brightest spark of this Chelsea attack with tremendous contributions to team output. Young Player of the Year last season and a true contender for Player of the Year, the 23-year-old came into the squad last season already on top form. Now, the England international is a proven gem of the Premier League.
Another factor is perhaps the huge amount of competition there is at the club. Especially in the attacking positions, Maresca has a plethora of options to choose from. Whether it's a shift in singular personnel or a combination of players to freshen the legs, it can be handy for a coach to have different players offering different outputs at his disposal.
Sancho, Jackson, Nkunku, Felix... the list of attacking players seems endless. This abundance of players itching to show their abilities on the pitch has undoubtedly caused many to up their game, knowing their place is at risk if they aren't as effective as their many teammates.
Overall, Chelsea have been an entertaining watch to say the least, with the attacking threat providing more than enough originality and flair to keep Chelsea fans off their seats.
Maresca and his side hope to keep their run of form alive after the international break, but with a trip to Anfield forthcoming they will have to bring their A-game to snatch all three points.
Comentários