Ahead of a very important Premier League match against Brighton, new head coach Enzo Maresca will unveil his refreshed team. New signings, returnees from injury, and a few tactical changes are the factors with which Chelsea‘s lineup might be expected to represent Maresca‘s vision for the club. Is Chelsea ready?
Who Can Be Chelsea’s No.1?
Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation has shifted following the departure of a few of their previous keepers. Robert Sanchez is likely to start, with Maresca showing confidence in him as Chelsea’s new No. 1. Sanchez’s composure and distribution skills make him a great fit for Maresca’s playing style. Backup options include the experienced Marcus Bettinelli and the young talent of Lucas Bergstrom, offering Chelsea depth between the posts.
Chelsea’s Wall Of Defense
Chelsea’s defense is laden with quality, but injury issues have prevented it from being that consistent. Reece James won’t be around again, so summer signing Malo Gusto is likely to take up his post at right-back. Gusto has started his life at Stamford Bridge, showing real quality, but there’ll be no better test than Brighton’s in-form attack.
On the left, Ben Chilwell should probably start: as under Maresca likes their full-backs to go forward, his attacking intent then places him as such a key player.
At the heart of the defense, Levi Colwill, who impressed on loan with Brighton last season, partners Axel Disasi. Colwill is reliable in passing from the back and demonstrates great ball control. Whereas, Disasi brings strength and aerial power. Alongside them, Chelsea have other reliable options in the promising Benoit Badiashile, who is returning after a spell with an injury. And Tosin Adarabioyo.
Midfield: The Heart Of Game
The midfield under Maresca could be Chelsea’s strongest unit. Enzo Fernandez, the world cup winner, at $113 million, is the most expensive signing for the Blues. And he is expected to be the heartbeat of the midfield. It will be interesting to see his vision, passing range, and control over the game, with all possessions happening around him, considering Maresca’s possession-based system. Moises Caicedo is a new signing and will be the anchor of Chelsea’s midfield. His tenacity to defend and win the ball back will stabilize the team against Brighton’s press.
Even though Romeo Lavia recovers from his injury, if fit, he can probably be on the bench, and then Maresca will count even later in the season. Without Lavia, Carney Chukwuemeka is another exciting player. His energy and forward runs might cause some trouble for Brighton’s defense.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is a smart signing from Leicester. He will enhance the depth of their midfield, and might just get a game where Maresca wants to rotate. His experience with PL teams is priceless, and his versatility would enable Chelsea to change the shape of the overall game after halftime.
Attacking: Chelsea’s Firepower
Chelsea’s attack has been refreshed. And it is both the exciting new signings and returning players to whom all eyes will be on to deliver. Noni Madueke is likely to start out on the right wing. And with what Maresca has seen of him, he will give Brighton’s defense problems.
On the left, Mykhailo Mudryk, who has slowly found his feet, is likely to lead the attack. Mudryk still seems to be in the process of learning the league. But he brings raw pace and excellent dribbling, which could be a launchpad for Chelsea’s counter-attacking moves.
The striker position for Chelsea will be led by Nicolas Jackson. Signed a few seasons ago, Jackson has flashes of brilliance but will need to improve on the consistency with which he plays. His movement and his finishing will have to hold up given that Chelsea might see an organized Brighton defense today.
Another versatile player is Pedro Neto, who will bring depth across the front line. He can play on both wings or centrally. Work rate and creativity for Maresca to flex attack.
Conclusion
As Brighton waits for the visit to Stamford, Enzo Maresca’s side is slowly coming into shape. Of course, the injuries to key players like Reece James and Romeo Lavia have forced him to make some changes. But it is safe to say that Chelsea has a lot in the depth, even at the back and in midfield. The Brighton encounter will be a good early test of tactics and how well players respond to his commands.
If Maresca can smoothen his resources and Chelsea’s attackers deliver, there is every chance the Blues can fetch a much-needed win. But it will be more important for the fans. They would want their team to regain the lost reputation and stand in the top 4 spots.
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