Chelsea’s defensive duo, Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi, have been underperforming.
Image credit: Ziyechman
Chelsea’s shocking 2-0 defeat to Ipswich Town yesterday has laid bare the cracks in their squad, despite their promising season so far.
The match saw Filip Jorgensen, who deputizes for Robert Sánchez, concede a penalty due to a poor decision, and a defensive blunder gifted Ipswich their second goal.
These costly mistakes highlight areas that Enzo Maresca must urgently address during the January transfer window to maintain Chelsea’s top-four hopes and long-term progress.
Chelsea’s progress this season has exceeded expectations, with the team sitting on the fringes of the title race.
However, as the January transfer window approaches, there’s still work to be done to ensure that the Blues continue their push for a top-four finish and a Champions League spot.
While the squad doesn’t require a complete overhaul, there are key areas that need addressing.
Enzo Maresca’s team has performed admirably, but if Chelsea is to challenge for the title and solidify their top-four standing, strategic moves are needed to fine-tune the squad.
1. Replace Unreliable Goalkeepers
Chelsea’s goalkeeper situation has become a pressing issue, with both Robert Sánchez and his deputy, Filip Jorgensen, struggling to provide the necessary reliability between the posts.
Sánchez, who has been the team’s number one this season, has made multiple errors that have led to goals.
Jorgensen, stepping in as a substitute, has also been less than convincing. His performance in Chelsea defeat yesterday hasn’t instilled confidence in Chelsea fans either.
Chelsea needs to find a top-class goalkeeper to strengthen this position, one capable of providing stability and consistency.
While signing a goalkeeper in January may prove challenging, given that they are usually more affordable than outfield players, it’s a move that could have a significant impact on Chelsea’s season.
2. Integrate Nkunku Effectively
Enzo Maresca is optimistic Christopher Nkunku will remain at Chelsea beyond January
Image credit: Chelsea Unfiltered Podcast
There have been reports suggesting that Christopher Nkunku may seek a move away from Chelsea, with Manchester United and Barcelona reportedly interested in the French forward.
Despite a lack of regular minutes in the Premier League, Nkunku remains one of Chelsea’s most lethal attacking options, and it’s essential that they find a way to integrate him into the team more regularly.
3. Reinforce Central Defense
Chelsea’s defensive frailties have been evident this season, with key defenders like Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana showing inconsistency at the back.
Both have been prone to mistakes, and Fofana’s injury problems have further exposed the need for a reliable central defender.
Benoit Badiashile has been a stopgap option, but his performances have not been convincing, and he’s now sidelined with injury.
Axel Disasi’s error, leading to Ipswich’s second goal, highlights the need for a commanding central defender.
Chelsea should prioritize signing a top-quality, experienced centre-back, someone who can lead the defence and provide the solidity needed for a title challenge.
4. Address Reece James Injury Situation
Reece James seen in training
Image credit: Chelsea FC
Reece James’ ongoing injury issues have left Chelsea in need of a reliable alternative at right-back.
Although Malo Gusto has been a solid backup and Moises Caicedo has been used in an inverted role, Chelsea must consider securing a more permanent solution.
The club has been linked with players like Tomas Araujo from Benfica, but they could also look internally, with academy graduate Josh Acheampong offering versatility in defence.
5. Give Youngsters More Game Time
While Maresca has done a good job integrating youth players into the squad, there are still some who would benefit from regular first-team football.
Marc Guiu is ready to prove his worth for Chelsea
Image credit: ESPN FC
Goalkeeper Lucas Bergstrom, midfielder Casadei, and forward Marc Guiu have all seen limited action this season, and a loan move could be beneficial to their development.
Chelsea needs to balance their squad numbers and ensure that young talent gets the exposure they need, either through first-team appearances or a move to a lower-tier club for more experience.
6. Offload Unutilized Players
While Chelsea’s squad is undoubtedly large, there are several players who aren’t getting regular game time and may be surplus to requirements.
Players like Ben Chilwell, Axel Disasi, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall have found themselves on the fringes of the team, with Chilwell and Chukwuemeka already being told they can leave.
Chelsea should look to move these players on in January, freeing up space for more effective reinforcements and making some money to reinvest in the squad.
Implementing these strategies as suggested by Goal.com, would address the weaknesses exposed in the Ipswich defeat and strengthen Chelsea’s prospects for the remainder of the season.