Chelsea need another dynamic force
Outside of Willian, there are few players in the current Chelsea setup that truly need to be accounted for by opposing defences. Manchester City were not threatened enough by the Chelsea attack to deter them from setting up their own advances as they saw fit.
Perhaps most painful for supporters watching from The Shed End and around the world was the authoritative performance of former blue, Kevin De Bruyne. He seems to exemplify what this current Chelsea side lack.
Fans should be encouraged, though, by the persistent rumors linking Antoine Griezmann with a potential move to Stamford Bridge. The Frenchman has been forceful in Atletico Madrid’s current run of form that sees them in the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League and pushing for the top spot in La Liga.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek is a center-piece for the future
While not able to make the difference on the day, he was a part of Chelsea’s few bright moments early on. Though his involvement waned as the match progressed, Loftus-Cheek’s ability to influence matches is increasingly apparent.
His strength and well-timed movement going forward are vital to controlling matches and he again showed glimpses of his potential. With continued development, he may be on the way to his goal of emulating club legend Frank Lampard, as he is quoted as saying in The Express.
Antonio Conte needs to build cohesion on the backline
While Chelsea’s defense was not at full strength again today, incoming manager Antonio Conte will no doubt have his work cutout for him in organizing this backline. The defensive performance against Manchester City was as poor as it has been all season.
Sergio Aguero, with his all too straightforward hat-trick, Kevin De Bruyne, and the rest of the City midfield were able to find space with ease.
New players will li0.kely be welcomed in and an upgrade in class is needed. Also necessary for this defense going forward is an improved structure. For Chelsea fans everywhere, hopefully the Italian manager is up to the task.
