3. Willian – Andre Carlisle
Whether it’s the twisty fro or that his face wouldn’t look out of place if wrapped around the head of a toddler, it’s hard to dislike the fleet footed Brazilian. Willian’s barrage of free kick goals were the only highlights in the worst ever start to a title defending campaign. Still, many supporters want more, especially given the skillset. Conte will almost certainly become President of this ‘Improve or Go’ Fan Club.
Apart from the free kicks—the last of which was scored in November—Willian’s development has largely stalled. While his speed on counters is invaluable, he is still loose in possession and often stalls attacks by standing on the ball. A player with Willian’s natural flair and impossibly quick feet should routinely win one-on-ones, but he doesn’t.
Though Conte’s world-beating Juventus most often relied on 3-to-4 central players for goals, it was the wingers who provided frequent service or created space/mismatches by running at and overloading the box. Willian has the tools to be a wonderful fit. If Chelsea’s new talisman can elevate Willian’s decision making to be more regularly in-tune with the quickness of his feet, things like this…
…can happen more frequently. More of that, please.
Next: 4. Oscar