Branislav Ivanovic has had to make way
With the need for three central defenders, the likes of Luiz and Cahill already in the center, the inevitable third choice would be Azpilicueta. John Terry has lost the physical ability to keep up with players and Ivanovic, in all honesty, is lucky to be alive.
David Luiz is still a bit reckless but has improved drastically in comparison to his previous stint at Chelsea and the 3 man defense has helped his case tremendously.
Eden Hazard is back
With defending duties the least of his worries and the access to creative freedom upfront, the Belgian has been radiant and has benefited the most from the new formation. Breaking through defenses with the likes of Pedro assisting him and a certain Diego Costa ready to do the dirty work of annoying center backs, it all seems to be in place for him at the moment.
Busting myths of a 3 man defense jinx in the Premier League
It was once said that the 3 man defense is a formation that wouldn’t work in the premier league. The likes of Van Gaal and Brendan Rodgers having failed may have given rise to this statement but Conte, a 3 man defense specialist for both Juventus and Italy has shown that, if the team is right for a formation, it is unstoppable (for now).
Conclusion
Chelsea have been on fire with the formation appearing to be tailor made for the team. The likes of Fabregas and Ivanovic having to make way which may seem harsh, but in all honesty, the team is a much better unit without the two. Kante seems to relishing his new role with Matic helping link the midfield with the attack.
The formation is by no means a long-term success solution. Eventually, every formation has a weakness and until then, Chelsea can relax. One mustn’t forget that Luiz is always one step away from something ridiculous and there are attacks capable of toying the likes of Cahill and Azpilicueta. Conte, for now, has it sorted. ‘For how long?’ is the question!
Image Credit: Squawka
