Chelsea has only managed to breach the opponent’s defense five times in their first four Premier League matches. This has raised concerns about The Blues heading down the same path as the previous season. Here are five potential solutions to address Chelsea’s goal-scoring woes.
Change the Tactical Formation
Throughout his managerial career, Mauricio Pochettino has built a reputation with his flexible 4-2-3-1 system. However, since arriving at Chelsea, he has abandoned this formation in favor of a defensive 3-4-2-1 setup. Despite the team’s familiarity with playing three center-backs under Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter, it’s clear they need a different approach, and reverting to the 4-2-3-1 might be more suitable.
Christopher Nkunku appears to be the best fit in the “number 10” role in a 4-2-3-1 formation, although the former RB Leipzig star is currently sidelined with an injury. However, Chelsea has options. Cole Palmer, another summer 2023 addition, displayed promise in a free-roaming midfield role in his debut. With what Palmer has shown, Pochettino could opt for a 4-2-3-1 formation, and the former Man City youngster has the potential to unlock the club’s attack.
Less Caution in Midfield
A defensive bias in midfield and a lack of creativity have become significant issues for Chelsea. In recent matches, Pochettino has deployed a midfield trio consisting of Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and Conor Gallagher. None of these players excel in supporting the attack.
Fernandez has performed reasonably well this season but may be better suited to a ball-distribution and tempo-control role in Pochettino’s flexible system. The optimal setup might involve placing Fernandez above a defensive midfielder (Caicedo) and behind a goal-scoring midfielder (Palmer). A personnel change might be necessary to suit this new lineup, and Gallagher, who hasn’t made a significant impact this season, might have to be benched.
Wider Responsibilities for Wingers
Chelsea heavily relies on its wingers for both scoring and assisting, but so far, only Raheem Sterling has consistently delivered this season. Carney Chukwuemeka has been improving, but he’s been sidelined due to injury. Pochettino needs more from both Noni Madueke and Mykhailo Mudryk, who have underperformed so far.
One solution could be to deploy Madueke or Mudryk deeper in the final third, allowing them to play to their strengths. Chukwuemeka’s injury has opened up space on the left-wing, and a tactical adjustment may be necessary to make the most of these nimble wingers.
See also: Chelsea fans are extremely frustrated due to Mudryk’s injury
Invest in Armando Broja
Another option for Pochettino is to give a chance to Chelsea’s somewhat forgotten player, Armando Broja. The young striker has returned to full training following a late 2022 World Cup-related ankle injury. Broja received regular game time under both Tuchel and Potter.
Although he didn’t shine brightly during his previous outings, returning to the squad can make him feel like a new signing. Furthermore, the 22-year-old forward adds depth and healthy competition for Nicolas Jackson, who has been disappointing recently, missing several clear-cut chances. Broja showed his potential in the Premier League during his loan spell at Southampton in the 2021/22 season. With confidence and motivation, Broja can become a valuable asset.
Boosting Jackson’s Confidence
Despite scoring one goal for Chelsea and missing several opportunities, particularly in the defeat to Nottingham, Jackson has the potential to be an effective Premier League striker. To be fair, his ball control, dribbling, and hold-up play have been excellent. What the 22-year-old Senegalese forward lacks is finishing prowess.
When asked if Jackson can improve, Pochettino responded, “Yes, of course. But Jackson needs time. He needs to adapt to the Premier League. He’s doing well, but scoring goals isn’t easy. Sometimes, Jackson rushes his decisions, but that’s just to say he needs to settle himself, stay calm, and be more comfortable. The goals will come.”
Pochettino’s words aren’t mere consolation. Jackson possesses the ability, with speed, agility, ball control, and the ability to link up with teammates. He could pose a serious threat to opposing defenses. With the international break underway, Pochettino will have more time to explore tactical systems as they head into the upcoming competitions.
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