3 Ways Chelsea will line up with new attacking signings Mudryk, Madueke and Felix
By Mike Malley
This January window has certainly been one to remember for the pride of London. Chelsea has drawn the attention, and in many cases, the ire, of the international footballing community after spending around £300 million on at least eight new players.
Joao Felix, Mykhailo Mudryk, Noni Madueke, and Enzo Fernandez are the obvious high-profile signings, while Benoit Badiashile, David Datro Fofana, Malo Gusto, and Andrey Santos all made moves to the Bridge as well. Todd Boehly is clearly not messing around when it comes to this rebuild.
I’m still pretty pessimistic about the Blues’ chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League, but no one can accuse the new American ownership of lacking ambition during its first year in charge of the club. If the past few months are anything to judge by, there are hundreds of millions of reasons to be excited about the new era of Chelsea FC.
While we supporters have certainly been ecstatic about the team’s new recruits, perhaps the person most excited about their respective arrivals is Graham Potter. The English tactician has been coaching with one hand tied behind his back due to the numerous injuries and suspensions that have plagued his squad throughout the campaign.
Christian Pulisic, Raheem Sterling, N’Golo Kante, Reece James, and Ben Chilwell have all missed significant time, but these stars are scheduled to return over the next few weeks and will need to be at their best if they want to retain their places in the starting XI. Much has been made about Chelsea’s bloated wage book, although the current injury crisis almost necessitates an entire additional squad is at the ready when called upon.
I doubt Potter will mind the overabundance of talented players to select from, as tactical adaptability has always been one of his biggest calling cards. Whether he’s deploying different starting XIs depending on the opponent or making in-game systematic adjustments, the Blues’ manager will be sure to utilize every strategy and skill set at his disposal.
I wouldn’t be surprised if Potter tinkers with the formation and personnel in the contests immediately following the end of the transfer window to try and find a balance between the new arrivals and established players. Here are three ways Chelsea can line up with its new attacking signings.