The alarming numbers predicting a rocky road ahead for Chelsea
By Karan Saini
In the context of the EPL, Chelsea’s struggles become increasingly conspicuous. Their tally of 25 points in 2023, shared with Everton, is a concerning indicator, compounded by the fact that the Toffees have played two fewer matches.
This meager point haul not only raises eyebrows but also serves as a stark reminder of how far the capital club has fallen from the lofty perch it once occupied. With just five victories to their name this year, the Blues stand alone as the only ever-present English top-flight team with the fewest wins.
The club’s away record further amplifies their woes, with a paltry two wins secured in 16 away fixtures since the tenure of former manager Graham Potter began. This uncharacteristic vulnerability on the road stands in stark contrast to Chelsea’s historically indomitable nature.
In 2023, the West Londoners’ issues extend beyond the scoreboard, as they have experienced defeat on 14 occasions, second only to Bournemouth’s 15 losses. The club’s goal-scoring woes are equally concerning, netting just 24 times, placing them at the bottom of the list among ever-present Premier League teams.
Perhaps most disconcerting is a 13-goal drought in top-flight matches this year, a league-high that has not been witnessed since 1995 when Chels’ endured 14 goalless games. The barren run has cast a shadow over their attacking prowess and strategic approach. Adding to their concerns is a record-breaking streak of three consecutive Premier League games without scoring, a stark contrast to their reputation as a goal-scoring powerhouse.
Chelsea’s dearth of early-season goals is equally alarming, with just five strikes in their first six league matches, marking their poorest start in terms of goal-scoring since the 1993/94 season when they finished a lackluster 14th. Only Everton has struggled to find the back of the net more frequently in the Premier League this season.