The transfer window has now slammed shut and with Chelsea being one of the busiest clubs, it only seems right to grade their incoming transactions.
Although deadline day hasn’t been as exciting as in year’s past for Chelsea fans, the window itself—in its entirety—was a thrill ride. The Blues were one of the busiest clubs in the world, making seven additions to their first team and even adding Xavier Mbuyamba to the developmental side. Frank Lampard’s new look squad offloaded some veterans and replaced them with young superstars. Still, the Blues have been slow off the blocks.
Regardless, big things lie ahead. Not all seven additions have featured yet and even then, they need time to adjust to a new league and team. Chelsea is looking to conquer Europe over the next few years and some of these additions are undoubtedly a step in the right direction. Without further adieu, here is the grade for each Blues addition, high school report card style:
1. Hakim Ziyech
Ziyech is the only expected first team player not to debut for the Blues yet this season (Malang Sarr has always anticipated a loan move). Even though the Moroccan is receiving the least attention of the bunch, he could be the most impactful when things are said and done. While many view he and Christian Pulisic as the duo to pick up where Eden Hazard left off, a player like the Moroccan Magician has been missing for quite some time around Stamford Bridge. Arjen Robben was the last elite left-footed winger to put on the Chelsea blue, Ziyech hopes to join that conversation going forward.
As the English top flight develops as a league, teams like Burnley have made a habit of sitting back and absorbing pressure with defensive discipline in order to get results. This has worked for a number of clubs—even earning Burnley, Sheffield United and others top half finishes over the years—and has become quite commonplace. Due to this trend, each big six team needs to have a player or players capable of breaking down compact defenses. The lack of an individual with this skillset in the SW6 has seen Chelsea struggle since the Antonio Conte era with the Premier League’s worst—most notably Bournemouth, West Ham and Watford. However, Ziyech puts an end to that drought.
Ziyech isn’t called The Magician for nothing. He’s one of the most creative players in all of Europe and he brings with him an incredible passing ability, unmatched vision and a silky smooth touch. Further, at 27, the new signing is at the height of his career and adds much needed experience to the young squad. Despite being rather under-appreciated by the fanbase, this acquisition may turn out to be the Blues’ best.