Chelsea engine N’Golo Kante is the most valuable (and best) player
By Travis Tyler
N’Golo Kante is the engine that makes Chelsea run. No other player is as valuable to the club and they should do everything they can to hold on to him.
Part of Leicester City’s miracle title win came down to scouting little known but secretly world class talents. Without Riyad Mahrez and N’Golo Kante, it simply would not have been possible.
After the title win, rumors popped up from all corners. The big clubs were circling around all the stars that made Leicester champions. Ultimately, only one key player left that summer. Chelsea won the race for Kante and they have lived off that success ever since.
Without Kante, last season’s switch the the 3-4-3 and eventual title win would not have been possible. Without Kante this season, Chelsea would not even have a chance at top four. They would have been out of that conversation long ago.
Kante does the hard, thankless and often ignored work in the midfield that allows his teammates to do the flashier things. Chelsea could afford to lose Eden Hazard or Willian or any other player. Their work can be replicated, either through the current roster or through the transfer window. But Kante is irreplaceable. If Chelsea were to lose the tiny Frenchman, they would have to change their entire style to cover the massive gap he leaves behind.
Related Story: Antonio Conte rebuilt Chelsea once already: He should stay to do it again
No match better encapsulates that than the loss to Manchester City. Chelsea held on for a half before ultimately conceding. But afterwards, the desire to press and fight anywhere was gone. It is hard not to think that, had Kante been there, his sheer tenacity would have buoyed his teammates into continuing the battle.
Recently, rumors of Paris Saint Germain interest surfaced about Kante. After Chelsea fans held their breath with the fear of losing Kante, the Frenchman eased everyone’s fright. In regards to the PSG rumors, Kante said the following:
"“I am at home. It is my club, I am a Chelsea player. This is my second year at Chelsea. After what happened last season, it was a very good one for us because we got to celebrate winning the title. In the second season, I have got to play in the Champions League and we are going again to finish in the top four. We will fight until the end to finish in the top four and to get in a Champions League position.”"
Thibaut Courtois and Eden Hazard should take note of that. When presented with a strong rumor, however credible, Kante shot it down and he laid down a marker for the season. A diplomatic and non fussy answer from a clinical and hardworking player.
Next: Chelsea Tactics and Transfers: Break shows need to rebuild English core
Chelsea should hand the man the biggest contract at the club. As the most valuable player, he should be compensated as such. Because when he eventually leaves, either through transfer or retirement, the hole he leaves in the squad will be the largest of any current player.