Chelsea FC’s Copa America Preview

David Rouben: Willian enters the Copa América as the best Chelsea player in attendance. Throughout the season, he was consistent on the right flank and was able to drop back more often than not.

He impressed on the attacking side too, efficiently providing great runs into the box. His two best moments were his last-gasp goal against Everton and assisting on Branislav Ivanovic’s header against Liverpool to send Chelsea to the Capital One Cup Final.

On the back of a good season and being part of a revamped Brazil squad, Willian should be able to get more playing time in this tournament. During the World Cup, he was meant to be used as an impact sub but ended up getting the Cuadrado treatment as Brazil’s manager at the time, Luiz Felipe Scolari, preferred Hulk over Willian. But that’s a matter for another day. He’ll likely be sharing the pitch with Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho while having Neymar on the other flank.

After suffering a historic humiliation at the World Cup which players and fans are sure not to forget anytime soon, expect Brazil to come out hungrier and more determined than ever. The first step in the right direction for Dunga and Co. will be winning the Copa America, and while Neymar is head and shoulders above the rest of the team, Willian should also prove to be one of the most reliable players during the tournament.

Next: Brazil - Filipe Luis