By Karl Matchett
The incredible about-turn from fans and pundits alike has sprouted from a 6-2 walloping of a dismal Wolves last weekend – with neither team able to defend in the first half, Enzo Maresca’s side went out and won the attack in the second. It’s not a ploy which is perhaps the true representation of what this manager wants, not given his preference for control and possession in deeper areas last year at Leicester, but it might just be the gameplan he – and the club – needs right now.
Let’s face it: given the fees spent and the faces brought in, few clubs can compete with Chelsea when it comes to attacking depth and strength in reserves, given some of the players they are still trying to offload.
But a Conference League play-off second leg will be about those they want to keep. The hard work was done a week ago, building up a low-key but effective 2-0 win over Servette, and now they know that if they cannot defend that lead in Switzerland, they can at least blitz their opponents to add to it.
The early weeks still look like a combination of the boss managing minutes and learning about his group, but some subtle signs are arising – not least of all, those who play midweek might not be in the XI come the league encounter at the weekend. But with Noni Madueke’s goal frenzy, Cole Palmer’s ongoing productivity and big impacts off the bench from João Félix and Pedro Neto, a starting front four might be beginning to emerge. Nicolas Jackson still has a lot to say in that regard – and they need five or six performing to that level consistently – but Mykhailo Mudryk might well have dropped three places in the pecking order from a single start.
And yet, issues remain behind the offensive talent. It’s not just a question of individual performances, but of partnerships. Robert Sánchez looks far from established as No.1, especially at a club with seven or eight goalkeepers. Defensive errors remain on show. And the midfield combination play just isn’t there yet, on or off the ball, at home or away.
Which makes a less-than-testing opponent an ideal next proving ground. With rotations or with consistency in his lineup, Maresca should get the chance to demand greater cohesion – and a third win on the bounce to further improve the mood.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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