In the opening match of their 2023 pre-season at the Kenan Memorial Stadium, Chelsea secured an impressive 5-0 victory against Wrexham in the Florida Cup. Under the guidance of new manager Mauricio Pochettino, the Blues started their campaign on a high note, triumphing over Phil Parkinson’s team in the United States. The quick and skillful performance of Senegalese forward Nicholas Jackson proved instrumental as he set up Ian Maatsen for an early goal just three minutes into the match.
Pochettino opted for a youthful starting lineup featuring summer signings Jackson and Diego Moreira, as well as Malo Gusto, Cesare Casadei, and Andrey Santos.
The first half in North Carolina saw an evenly contested game, with Wrexham attempting to capitalize on long throws and Elliot Lee even trying a spectacular effort. However, it was CFC who managed to score the next goal. Maatsen found the back of the net once more before halftime, doubling their lead. During the break, Pochettino made substitutions, introducing RB Leipzig’s star signing, Christopher Nkunku, into the game.
The second half lacked the same intensity as both teams had their chances, but it wasn’t until the 80th minute that another goal was scored. Substitute Gallagher fired a low shot from outside the area, and despite Rob Lainton’s efforts, he couldn’t keep it out.
In the final moments of the match, Nkunku and Chilwell sealed the game in style for the Blues, each adding a goal. The Blues comfortably secured a win in their opening Florida Cup match.
Here are three lessons learned from Chelsea’s first 2023 pre-season match against Wrexham on Wednesday night at North Carolina:
Nicolas Jackson is looking sharp
The signing of Nicolas Jackson raised eyebrows as the West London club sought their new focal point in attack. The £32 million acquisition from Villarreal has committed to an eight-year deal and now faces the task of proving himself as a wise investment.
In less than three minutes, Jackson demonstrated why Chelsea invested in him. Positioned as the striker, he received the ball deep, skillfully bypassed Ben Tozer, and attracted three Wrexham defenders before calmly setting up Ian Maatsen for an easy finish beyond Ben Foster. This remarkable assist marked a dream start in a Blue shirt for Jackson while also being a memorable moment for Maatsen, fresh from a successful loan spell with Burnley.
Challenges lie ahead, but Pochettino and the team will be hopeful that this ideal start serves as a catalyst for a strong debut season in the Premier League. Jackson’s emergence as the player Chelsea needs for a focal point in attack will be crucial in their quest for success.
A new system under Pochettino
The dawn of a new era for CFC provided the first glimpse of their style under new manager Mauricio Pochettino. Contrary to expectations of a back five, the team lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Marc Cucurella played as left-back while Ian Maatsen operated in a more advanced role, scoring two goals in the first half. The midfield featured young talents Cesare Casadei and Andrey Santos as the double-pivot, with Carney Chukwuemeka playing just behind lone striker Nicholas Jackson in the No.10 position. The combination worked smoothly, as Chukwuemeka’s clever flick set up Maatsen for his second goal near the edge of the box.
During the break, there were significant changes made, including a completely new front four. Christopher Nkunku replaced Jackson as the No.9, Brazilian winger Angelo made his debut, and Raheem Sterling and Conor Gallagher were also brought into the game.
Towards the end, Marc Cucurella returned to the field, this time as a left center-back, as Pochettino experimented with a back three formation with Ben Chilwell as the wing-back.
Overall, the match showcased Chelsea’s commitment to a high-pressing game, defending from the front to disrupt Wrexham’s rhythm effectively. This promising display gave fans an encouraging glimpse into Pochettino’s vision for the team.
Ian Maatsen impresses, deserves a chance in the first team
Following an immensely successful loan spell at Burnley last season, where he scored four goals and provided six assists, Maatsen’s future at the capital was uncertain. Speculation suggested he might be sent out on loan to Chelsea’s extensive network of clubs or even transferred to another English team permanently.
Reports indicated that West Ham was among the interested parties, and on Wednesday, Maatsen seemingly caught the attention of Hammers’ manager David Moyes. He netted two goals and showcased his pace and skill out wide, becoming the primary creative force for a relatively subdued blue side of London in the first half, justifying the Man of the Match award.
Despite his ability to also play at his preferred position at left-back, Maatsen is part of a surplus of attacking players at Chelsea, all vying for limited playing time this season. With no European competitions to offer additional opportunities, the competition for minutes is expected to be fierce. Nonetheless, this strong performance was an excellent beginning for a player who might otherwise have struggled to find opportunities.
After a convincing five-star victory over Wrexham in Mauricio Pochettino’s managerial debut, CFC is gearing up to face Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League Summer Series. The match between the two teams will take place at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Saturday.