3. Injury Crisis:
Chelsea have had the most injuries in the Premier League this season, with at least 6-7 players on their injury list since the beginning of the season. Club Captain Reece James has only played 391 minutes in the League this season, while star signing Christopher Nkunku suffered a knee injury in the final pre-season game and has managed just 318 minutes since returning to fitness. Pochettino has had to work without his two best players for most of the season so far, the impact of which should not be underestimated in any way.
Having attended all five of Chelsea’s pre-season games in the United States this summer, it was evident that Nkunku was pivotal to Pochettino’s system. The Frenchman was the Bundesliga’s top scorer last season with 16 goals. He quickly showed his clinicality in front of goal, scoring 3 goals and building up an electric partnership with striker Nicolas Jackson. The entire attack was built around Nkunku’s superior technical skills, off-the-ball running, link-up play, and threat in the box.
The fact that CFC supporters have only been able to see that in flashes so far this season is simply unfortunate. Nkunku's brilliance was on display in the 4-1 loss to Liverpool in the League, where he scored a sublime solo goal that showcased his close control and finishing ability. As the Frenchman builds his way back to full fitness and match sharpness, Pochettino will be hoping that he can reignite Chelsea’s attack just as he did during pre-season.