Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the United States has come to an end, and it has left the team with plenty to think about.
After a grueling schedule of five matches in five states over 18 days, the Blues managed just one win, one draw, and three losses, conceding 12 goals in the process.
As they return to London, fixing their defensive issues will be a top priority. Here are some key talking points from their US tour.
Defensive Struggles and the Need for Improvement
Chelsea’s pre-season tour highlighted their defensive vulnerabilities, as they conceded 12 goals in five matches.
The team’s new approach under Enzo Maresca, which emphasizes building play from the back, has contributed to some of these defensive lapses.
Half of the goals conceded were due to mistakes while playing out from the back, showing that the squad is still adjusting to this high-risk, high-reward style of play. This will need to be addressed before the Premier League season begins.
Maintaining a Youth-First Transfer Approach
Despite criticism, Chelsea remains committed to their strategy of investing in young talent.
Under the ownership of Todd Boehly-Clearlake, the club has spent around £115 million on eight players, all under the age of 21.
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This approach, while risky, reflects Chelsea’s long-term vision of developing a squad that can grow together.
With potential signings like Victor Osimhen, the club is also looking to balance youth with experienced stars.
Christopher Nkunku’s Importance to the Team
Christopher Nkunku has emerged as a key player for Chelsea during the pre-season.
The versatile Frenchman, who played the most minutes during the tour, impressed with three goals in five matches.
Nkunku’s ability to play in multiple positions gives Maresca valuable flexibility in his tactical setup. However, staying fit will be crucial for Nkunku, who struggled with injuries last season.
A Demanding Schedule Raises Concerns
Chelsea’s pre-season schedule has been intense, with five matches played in just 18 days. This has led to concerns about the team’s readiness for the new season.
Coach Enzo Maresca acknowledged that the packed schedule limited their ability to prepare fully for each match.
Despite these challenges, the team avoided injuries, which is a positive outcome. However, they will need to make the most of their remaining time before the season starts.
Full-Back Dilemma: Reece James or Malo Gusto?
Chelsea’s full-back positions have become a talking point, particularly with Reece James serving a suspension at the start of the season.
Malo Gusto is expected to start at right-back, but both he and James have struggled to adapt to Maresca’s system.
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In this setup, full-backs are required to either step into midfield or drop back as a third central defender, roles that require significant tactical discipline. Finding the right balance will be essential for Chelsea’s defensive stability.
Expectations for Maresca’s First Season
Chelsea’s leadership has shown faith in Enzo Maresca by offering him a five-year contract, signaling a desire for stability after a period of managerial changes.
The primary goal for Maresca’s first season is to secure a Champions League spot, especially after narrowly missing out last season.
However, success in cup competitions and the development of young players could also buy him some time if the league campaign doesn’t go as planned.
Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the United States has provided valuable insights, but it has also exposed areas that need improvement. As the new season approaches, the team will need to address these issues to meet the high expectations set for them.
