Moises Caicedo is rapidly carving his name into the Premier League’s elite. At just 23 years old, the Ecuadorian midfielder has become a linchpin in Chelsea’s setup, combining defensive solidity with composure on the ball.
With the Blues vying to reclaim their dominance in both domestic and European competitions, Caicedo’s performances against giants like Liverpool and Arsenal have made him an indispensable asset in their quest for success.
Defensive masterclass: Caicedo's numbers speak volumes
Caicedo’s defensive statistics this season are nothing short of outstanding. As of 4 January 2025, he leads the Premier League in combined tackles and interceptions, totalling a formidable 90. This includes 60 successful tackles and 30 interceptions, highlighting his sharp defensive instincts and ability to thrive under pressure.
His tackle success rate of 61.7% reflects his precision and confidence when challenging opponents, making him a tough nut to crack for attackers.
The physical nature of the Premier League has found a worthy rival in Caicedo. He has participated in 202 duels and emerged victorious in an impressive 58.91% of them, underscoring his ability to physically dominate his counterparts.
His aerial supremacy is equally noteworthy, boasting a success rate of 69.70% in contested aerial duels. Beyond duels, his 24 clearances and five blocked shots have been pivotal in protecting Chelsea’s defensive structure and quelling opposition threats.
What sets Caicedo apart is his exceptional anticipation. His sharp reading of the game allows him to intercept passes and disrupt attacks before they can materialise.
More than defence: Caicedo’s calmness in possession
While his defensive impact is unquestionable, Caicedo’s contributions extend far beyond breaking up play. This season, he has completed 1,160 passes with a remarkable accuracy rate of 89.0%.
On average, he attempts 61.89 passes per 90 minutes, emphasising his vital role in Chelsea’s build-up play. With 1,433 touches on the ball so far, he is often the cornerstone of Chelsea’s possession-based approach.
Caicedo thrives under pressure, showcasing a calmness that allows him to navigate tight spaces and bypass pressing opponents with ease. His confidence in retaining possession ensures smooth transitions from defence to attack, creating opportunities for his teammates to break forward.
His vision and passing range provide Chelsea’s forwards with the foundation they need to mount meaningful offensive plays. This balance between defensive security and attacking fluidity has brought a newfound stability to Chelsea’s midfield.
Moises Caicedo has quickly emerged as a crucial figure in Chelsea’s pursuit of silverware. Chelsea’s faith in the young midfielder has been richly rewarded. His unique blend of defensive acumen and composure in possession makes him a vital presence on the pitch. With Caicedo anchoring the midfield, Chelsea’s ambitions of reclaiming their former glory seem well within reach.