How Chelsea could line up with Werner and Ziyech next season

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - OCTOBER 23: Mason Mount of Chelsea battles for possession with Hakim Ziyech of AFC Ajax during the UEFA Champions League group H match between AFC Ajax and Chelsea FC at Amsterdam Arena on October 23, 2019 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - OCTOBER 23: Mason Mount of Chelsea battles for possession with Hakim Ziyech of AFC Ajax during the UEFA Champions League group H match between AFC Ajax and Chelsea FC at Amsterdam Arena on October 23, 2019 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
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chelsea, tammy abraham
NORWICH, ENGLAND – AUGUST 24: Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham of Chelsea celebrates after scoring their team’s second goal during the Premier League match between Norwich City and Chelsea FC at Carrow Road on August 24, 2019 in Norwich, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

1. 4-2-3-1

This formation has been the most commonly used by Lampard this season. With the new signings, he could use a variety of players in different positions and also play different tactics while using this formation.

In this setup the keeper would be Arrizabalaga, with the James and Azpilicueta at right back and left back respectively. The centreback duo to be employed could be Christensen (right centreback) and Rudiger (left centreback). This would be because Christensen has great passing ability and has a good aerial presence whereas Rudiger is quick and physical. The German is the only centreback who could play on the left-hand side. Rudiger has the added ability of giving those cross-field diagonal passes into the path of quick wingers.

Kante and Kovacic would be the duo in the middle of the park, with Kante giving that energy and defensive prowess. Kovacic offers a unique passing ability like Jorginho, but with added mobility while tackling and progressing with the ball up the field.

Since Werner and Ziyech have been a part of pressing systems, they won’t have a problem dealing with the pressing requirements. Ziyech has been used primarily as a central attacking midfielder for Ajax this season. But, Ziyech has also been played off the right wing. He adds that extra dimension with his chance creation through the centre, as well as wide positions. In this system, he’ll be employed as a right winger. With his trickery off the dribble and deceptive change of pace, he’ll thrive with his accurate left foot.

Mount will be played as the No. 10 in this system. This is because of his ability to lead the press effectively. He also can push onto the opposing defensive/deep-lying midfielder, thereby not allowing the opponent to dictate the passing game. Werner will be employed as a left winger with his pace and precise finishing giving him the advantage in one-on-one situations. He’s also shown the quality to create chances by himself without relying others.

Abraham will be the lone striker in this system. He has slowly developed his hold-up play over the course of this season, so that will allow Werner and Ziyech to play off him. It also puts him in great positions to capitalize on chances created by the three players behind him.