kabulblueContrary to many pundits who saw the end of Chelsea after the Inter defeat I am more optimistic and believe that a slight change in shape and a couple of key, technically gifted signings will see Chelsea be able to adjust to a more flexible game to compete with Barcelona, Inter and Real Madrid in 2010/11.
As can be seen I believe that this summer only two major signings are required - world class players admittedly. I have plumped for both Aguero and Di Maria to fulfill these roles respectively. First I will elaborate on my formation.
I have gone for a slightly asymmetrical 4-2-3-1 which would convert into a 4-4-1-1 during the defensive phase. I believe that Chelsea perform at their best with a variant of 4-3-3 and any major changes would not be beneficial to the team as a whole: evolution not revolution.
Defence: Cech will retain his place in goal and I would stick with the same back four with Cole providing extra width down the left supporting Malouda and Ivanovic performing a slightly more defensive role to support Di Maria.
Midfield: Essien would be the nominal "defensive" midfielder but would be given license to push forward and use his dynamism. Lampard would play slightly left, as he currently does, but would perform a role more similar to his job for England where he helps to keep shape of the team with occasional bursts into the box. As he is playing alongside Essien instead of Mikel he would need to drop deep on occasions to cover for the forward runs from deep that Essien thrives on.
Attack: Further forward in my attacking 4 I have Malouda on the left, who is able to go both wide and provide crosses and come inside to support Aguero. Ageuro will be the sides creative "No. 10" and will be given license to play directly off Drogba, to go wide left or right or pick up the ball deep. I envisage him playing a similar role that Ancelotti had Kaka playing for Milan. On the right I have Di Maria who can provide width and pace down the right and cut in to use his stronger left foot as well as interchange with Aguero at will. All of this will provide the ammunition and movement that will allow Drogba to do the damage that he often inflicts.
Substitutes: Turnbull (GK), J Cole (Att), Carvalho (Def), Anelka (Att), Mikel (Mid), Kakuta (Att), Bruma (Def), Ballack (Mid), Sturridge (Att), Bosingwa (Def), Zhirkov (Def). With these subs and others I see enough ability to change things around throughout the season and to keep things fresh.
I strongly believe that this team and squad will have enough to challenge for major honors next season. Any thoughts and critiques would be welcomed!
07.04.2010
ZolaI agree totally on your evolution not revolutions stance. There's no need to rush into panic buying. We have a solid squad and just need to do some upkeep.
It would be nice if we spent some money to back up Essien. Ballack does not cut it for me there.
07.04.2010
FeriAtsBosingwa, if fit, is miles ahead of Ivanovic as a right back.
07.04.2010
kabulblue@Zola...thanks for your comments. I know what you are saying about Ballack but I think that Mikel is more than a decent back-up for Essien. I was trying to find a place him in the team as he has been excellent over the last couple of months (except, like everyone else, against Man City). If we buy in anyone else we could create discord in the ranks due to too many players.
@FeriAts...I agree, partially, with your point. Bosingwa is an excellent player but I do not think he has proved his worth just yet. Ivanovic has been excellent this season however just as I am thinking about I am changing my mind! Chelsea have played better with a more technically gifted full-back since Ivanovic got injured and that makes me think if Bosingwa was fit and in full flow he would aid the teams fluidity - something I think is vital. So there you go...you are right after all!
07.04.2010
DaveI like bringing back Ballack, I think the WC could rejuvinate him. He's great for big games, very physical presence that's needed in the central midfield of the EPL, and a great leader for the team.
I wouldn't buy Di Maria, I think he's more of a left sided player anyways and we're stocked on those. A better right winger is needed and that could be Joe Cole, given the playing time. I think we should sell Kalou and Carvalho, bring in more defensive midfield cover, and a young striker for when Drogs/Anelka are too old.
26.04.2010
kabulblueThanks for the comments Dave. I must say though I am getting fed up with this "he's a left/right winger/full-back". In today's game a player can play on either side regardless of which ostensible foot is their strongest. Bayern, Barca and Inter are two of the most notable examples of teams deploying players like this and they have been pretty successful don't you think?
I agree with Ballack being in the squad as long as he is cover for our defensive midfielders but I think Essien and Mikel are ahead of him.
I do not think Joe Cole cuts it at the highest level anymore. That is why I have gone for Di Maria...technically gifted and quick although we start to play Kakuta, which I think will happen next season.
27.04.2010
adrian96@FeriAts Ivanovic was one of the best RB's this season, I'd take him over Bosinwa any day.
04.06.2010
jeb_springfieldI agree with the idea that an overhaul is not required. The squad are strong and with a few additions (as you have highlighted) Chelsea will be able to challenge at the highest level. Having said that, I disagree that Mikel is adequate cover for Essien. To be honest I think he is too inconsistent. I also think that with Hilaro leaving another goalkeeper will be required.
I think that if Joe Cole leaves the team, then Aguero will be the best bet.
I would also choose Bosingwa over Ivanovic as the starting right back.
06.06.2010
