Chelsea have had a solid start to the season, averaging 59.4% possession and scoring eight goals in their opening four games. This places them sixth in possession statistics and second in goal-scoring, just behind Manchester City.
A standout performance was their 6-0 victory over Wolves, with Noni Madueke netting a hat-trick, Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson also finding the back of the net, and João Félix marking his return to Chelsea with a goal.
Despite their attacking prowess, Chelsea have also conceded five goals in their first four games, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities that need to be addressed. Coach Enzo Maresca will need to focus on shoring up the defense to secure a place in the top four.
A possible solution could be a change in the backline for their upcoming match against West Ham United.
Axel Disasi’s game in numbers vs Bournemouth
In their recent game against AFC Bournemouth, Axel Disasi struggled, losing both of his duels and possession nine times while playing out of position at right-back.
Having played primarily as a central defender, Disasi struggled to adapt to the demands of the right-back position, particularly in Maresca’s possession-oriented system.
One potential solution to Chelsea’s defensive issues could be utilizing Moises Caicedo in an unorthodox right-back role.
Chelsea’s unorthodox solution at right-back
Moises Caicedo, a versatile midfielder, has experience playing at right-back for Brighton, showcasing his adaptability and skillset. His ability to transition between midfield and defense could provide Chelsea with a creative solution to their defensive woes.
Caicedo stats (24/25 so far)
Stats (per 90 mins)
Caicedo
Progressive Carries – 1.32
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
By deploying Caicedo in this unique role, Chelsea can maintain their tactical structure while adding an extra dimension to their midfield. This tactical tweak could provide the team with the flexibility and defensive solidity needed to compete at the highest level.
While the implementation of this strategy remains to be seen, it presents an intriguing possibility for Chelsea’s upcoming match against West Ham United. The tactical innovation could be the key to unlocking Chelsea’s full potential this season.
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In conclusion, Chelsea’s innovative approach to their defensive challenges could be the catalyst for their success this season. By leveraging the versatility of players like Moises Caicedo, the team can adapt to different situations and opponents, ensuring that they remain competitive at the highest level. With tactical tweaks and creative solutions, Chelsea under Maresca’s guidance have the potential to make a significant impact in the Premier League and beyond.