3. Chelsea has been searching for a striker like Kai Havertz
We likely don’t need to belabor this point too much as it’s a familiar tale to the Chelsea faithful. Over the last few years, the Blues have been searching for a player who can lead the front line and replace the likes of Diego Costa and Didier Drogba. Chelsea has had a revolving door of strikers, and some false nine projects, that has seen Tammy Abraham, Oliver Giroud, Romelu Lukaku, Alvaro Morata, Christian Pulisic and Werner—amongst others—all try to provide stability at the position. Yet, it seems to be German wunderkind Kai Havertz who is finally growing into the role while also displaying a big match pedigree.
Havertz’s goal on Saturday was his 13th of the season and fifth in as many matches. He seems to be very adept at operating as a “false nine,” excelling in both linking to his teammates and moving into more advanced positions. He’s also tacked on an additional five assists to add to his team-high goalscoring tally.
Saturday’s match at the St. Mary’s Stadium exemplified what makes Havertz great in his redefined role under Thomas Tuchel. In the 32′, the 22-year-old found himself in the perfect position to clean up a Werner shot that deflected off the crossbar, which he did effortlessly. Just a few moments later, Havertz displayed two FIFA-style skill dribbles with an “olé” move to retain possession when being pressed by a few Saints defenders. He’s simply evolving before our eyes and it’s hard to fathom any team-building philosophy that doesn’t have Havertz at the center of it. Chelsea may have finally found its next great No. 9 in the youngster.