Chelsea’s hierarchy should act before it is too late

Chelsea played out a goalless draw for the 3rd consecutive time in 3 different competitions on Saturday. The board must act fast to prevent a crisis.

It’s as clear as daylight, Chelsea are struggling in front of goal. The players looks tired and there is an apparent lack of desire or effort to even try. Having to play three times in a week does not help either.

Among Chelsea’s 5 main attacking players, Eden Hazard and Alvaro Morata are part of Antonio Conte’s preferred line up. Playing consecutive game after game is taking its toll on both of them. At times like this, Conte would love nothing more than fringe players showing why they should be picked ahead of the duo. Unfortunately, despite a few starting against Norwich City in the FA Cup, their performances were pathetic. If anything, only Willian impressed.

When players are tired, Chelsea’s attack looks predictable. There is no movement, no one-touch passes, quick runs, crowding the penalty box, runs from the middle to the box or anything. The lack of confusion created in the opposition defense helps them to nullify Chelsea’s attack effortlessly.

But the most baffling part is the absence of effort from the board. There is a shortage of depth in the team. They are playing in 4 different competitions as well and subsequently need fresh players in each match if the club is to move forward in various competitions.

Revolution?: Chelsea need new transfers, new tactics, new ambitions

As has been the case lately, they have signed yet another player who is not fully fit. It was the case with Bakayoko and Drinkwater during summer which had an effect on their early season form. Ross Barkley is a young player who has a lot of potential. But what Chelsea need most is a player who could go straight into team. Someone who can complement and take burden off Hazard.

There are players like Alexis Sanchez available who can do such a job. The transfer fee and wage demands will be high in the current inflated transfer market. But a big club like Chelsea should be in the market to sign such players. He can improve the team significantly right away. Moreover, not qualifying for the World Cup means Sanchez should be fresh and well rested at the start of next season.

However, Chelsea are not even in the mix to sign Sanchez or Riyad Mahrez. Instead they are linked with another pair of strikers who have history of injury problems, Christian Benteke and Andy Carroll. The lack of big name/names who can complement Hazard could be a reason he is delaying extending his contract at Chelsea. There is a possibility of Conte leaving as well.

Chelsea should be making statements with their signings like any big club would do. It’s as if they are the only team who care about FFP. If the board is busy looking out for players who lack fitness or will only come good in future, it won’t be long before Chelsea will be lining up without their charismatic manager or the big name players whom they currently depend on.

Next: Tactics and Transfers: Coaching Morata and adding players

What do you think of the current situation at Stamford Bridge? Let us know in the comments below!