Chelsea at Malmo player ratings: Tough but important victory

Cesar Azpilicueta (Right wingback): 7/10

Cesar Azpilicueta looked a bit rusty and sluggish throughout the game. The Spaniard started the game not poorly, but as time progressed, he improved as a wingback. There was no attacking threat from Malmo, so Azpilicueta did not have much work to do in his own half. Therefore, he ventured forward, even taking a shot on goal and making four long passes.

Jorginho (Central midfielder): 7/10

The Italian midfielder had an amazing first half, picking out players at will, no matter the range. He showcased his world-class passing ability throughout the duration of the game in Sweden. During the second half, Jorginho did not have much to do except pass the ball around and maintain the tempo. After Chelsea went ahead in the game, the Italian helped the Blues see out the game with relative comfort. He won Man of the Match, as well.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Central midfielder): 8.5/10

One of the best players on the pitch in Malmo was Ruben Loftus-Cheek. Loftus-Cheek made his first appearance for Chelsea in the Champions League since 2015 and played all around in the midfield, popping up whenever needed with ease. The midfielder should have had at least an assist in each half, if only Kai Havertz was clinical in front of goal.

Marcos Alonso (Left wingback): 7/10

Marcos Alonso looked off the pace from the start of the game. The Spaniard struggled in getting up to speed with his teammates, resulting in misplaced passes and lost possession of the ball. Not to anyone’s surprise, Alonso played the first half of the contest further forward in the opponent’s half. Supporters saw a much more disciplined performance from the wingback in the second half.