After the 2015-16 season, which was handicapped by managerial ramifications, off-field tantrums and shambolic performances, Chelsea seems to be back in the groove. Antonio Conte’s appointment at the start of this season was meant to cultivate something exciting for the club and the Italian did steady the ship and is navigating it in an impeccable manner at the moment.
Five points clear of Liverpool who sits in the second spot, the Blues find themselves in a very comfortable position at the summit of the league table. However, complacency cannot be afforded by the former league champions and nobody knows it better than Conte. To meet the upcoming demands of the business end of the league, Chelsea are vouching for their options and it is believed that they are interested in roping Monaco’s Tiemoué Bakayoko into their side.
We have compiled a brief SWOT Analysis of this very talented youngster who has attracted a lot of attention from some of the big clubs across Europe, including Chelsea.
Strengths
Bakayoko excels in his role of the defensive midfielder and very few of his age can match the quality and technicality he possesses. He sits just ahead of the defence and breaks the opponents’ attack with sheer perfection which lets his side initiate counter-attacks. Strong aerially, he has the force, energy and ruthlessness which a holding midfielder must possess.
The Frenchman has been subject to praise, owing to the excellent passing vision that he operates with and statistically speaking, he has registered a pass accuracy of 86% in French Ligue 1 of which 81% were forward passes. He acts as the intermediary between the defence and the attack of Monaco. Moreover, the 22-year-old scores goals and creates chances too, which makes him a complete utility player.
Weaknesses
Lapses due to sudden adrenaline rush is one of the inherent weaknesses he suffers from. Indiscipline is one of the aspects of the game he needs to amend in order to ensure that the trajectory of his progress doesn’t go downward. There is not much to account for, to be honest, in terms of his weakness apart from the one mentioned.
Opportunities
Tiemoué Bakayoko has plenty of experience under his belt from the junior levels of French national team. Monaco has developed a handful of very promising youngsters, including Anthony Martial and Bakayoko seems to be the next in the line.
With a move to the Stamford Bridge, he will have the chance to work with a better infrastructure and in a much better system which will introduce him to more limelight.
Threats
Though his talent is undeniable, the demands of the Premier League are humungous too. He has cemented his stature at Monaco but is still very young and any improper move at this point may seriously dent his career. The famous (or infamous; it’s yours to pick!) Chelsea loan system is something Bakayoko should particularly be wary of and should make a move to a hostile league like the Premier League only after considering the pros and cons of the move.
Statistics Credits: Squawka.
