Chelsea mid-season review: Ranking Mauricio Pochettino's summer signings
As Chelsea gears up for a crucial clash against Crystal Palace on Wednesday, Mauricio Pochettino faces a midfield dilemma with the hopes of having Moises Caicedo back. However, Enzo Fernandez is still sidelined due to a hernia problem.
Enzo, who switched from Benfica to Chelsea in January, has been a standout performer for the Blues. His absence due to a hernia problem is a significant blow, depriving Chelsea of one of their most consistent performers. He is set to complete a year at the club next month, and his impact has been instrumental in shaping Chelsea’s midfield dynamics. Even though statistics show otherwise, his efforts have been nothing but top-class and, unfortunately, he has not won many Premier League games for the Blues.
On the flip side, Pochettino is optimistic about Moises Caicedo’s return after being ruled out with a fever in the previous match against Wolves. Caicedo, who arrived at Stamford Bridge amid high expectations, has experienced a mixed bag of performances. However, recent signs indicate that he is starting to find his rhythm at the club. The untimely fever disrupted his momentum, but the Argentine manager will be hopeful that Caicedo can deliver a strong performance if given the opportunity against Roy Hodgson’s Palace.
The team news is as per Poch speaking to the Guardian. One can expect the duo of Conor Gallagher and Lesley Ugochukwu to retain their place in the starting XI from the clash against Gary O’Neil’s men. However, if Caicedo is fit enough to start, he could slot in instead of Ogochukwu on the right side of central midfield.
Chelsea’s recent loss to Wolves has added urgency to their quest for redemption, and the upcoming fixtures against Crystal Palace and Luton Town provide a chance to close the tumultuous 2023 calendar year on a positive note. The Blues will be eager to secure two victories to alleviate the disappointment of a challenging year.
The clash against Crystal Palace holds particular significance, not only due to the team’s recent defeat but also as a precursor to the final league game of the year against Luton Town on December 30th. Pochettino will be keen to instil a winning mentality and address the inconsistencies that have plagued Chelsea throughout the year.
As the midfield takes centre stage in the absence of Fernandez due to injuries and the likes of Raheem Sterling and Cole Palmer serving time on the sidelines due to suspension, players like Caicedo, along with others in the squad, will have an opportunity to showcase their capabilities.
As the Blues navigate the complexities of injuries and expectations, Pochettino’s managerial prowess will be crucial in guiding Chelsea through the remaining hurdles of the year and laying the groundwork for a renewed sense of optimism in the months to come.
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