Despite Chelsea’s slow start in the transfer window, the Blues have managed to skim some of the creamy layers from the market. The new squad upgrade definitely makes them a major title contender in England as well as in Europe. With teams like Manchester United, City, Chelsea and Everton on a spending spree, the league promises to be fiercely competitive next season.
Here is the Chelsea line-up with their new signings-
Defence
Thibaut Courtois would definitely be the man with the gloves. The Belgian has won the club two league titles in the last three seasons since returning from Atletico Madrid back in 2014. Following their poor season in the 2015-16 campaign, where the Belgian custodian missed 17 games with a meniscus tear, Courtois has returned back to form and so have Chelsea.
We expect Antonio Conte to stick with his success formula of a three-man defence from last season, though it becomes difficult for him to fit in Cesar Azpilicueta. The back-three is expected to be Antonio Rudiger, Garry Cahill and David Luiz. The three large-framed centre-halves should be more than enough to keep their back line safe.
The German international is the newest and by far their most significant addition to the side. Albeit winning the season last campaign, Chelsea didn’t have the best defence in the league. Conte was tremendously fortunate that Azpilicueta did his job brilliantly to keep things assured at the back.
Midfield
Here is where Azpilicueta would be the most useful for the Italian manager. While Victor Moses was effective from the right wing-back role last season, his inconsistency and tendency to give away the ball was one of the main reasons Chelsea lost the FA Cup final to Arsenal. The Spaniard was the most successful passer in the Premier League last season.
Azpilicueta would definitely not bring in the outmuscling run that Moses had, but his intelligent game reading skills would be crucial in going forward. The other flank should be taken by his compatriot Marcos Alonso. The former Fiorentina man did quite well in his debut season with the Blues, barring a few occasions, and should keep his place in the squad.
The midfield should be taken by the dream pair of Tiemoue Bakayoko and N’Golo Kante. Nemanja Matic’s future at Stamford Bridge remains highly uncertain and he is more than likely to leave the club. Cesc Fabregas is expected to continue his contributions from the bench.
Attack
The two attacking midfielders should continue to be Eden Hazard and Pedro. While Willian’s lack of first team chances was a source of debate last season, we think that the Brazilian would be best fit from the bench as an impact player.
The centre-forward should be new signing Alvaro Morata. While Premier League remains a new thing to him, Conte isn’t. He will be eager to embark on this journey.
