João Félix to Chelsea: Analyzing the tactical fit in Enzo Maresca's system

Once hailed as one of football’s most exhilarating young talents, João Félix’s big money move to Atlético Madrid didn’t unfold as anticipated. Now, Félix returns to Stamford Bridge with hopes of finally finding his footing.

In this analysis, The Pride of London will delve into how Félix could integrate into Enzo Maresca’s tactical setup at Chelsea.

The Ideal Position

Félix’s versatility allows him to function in various roles, but we will focus primarily on his position as a left-sided No. 8. This choice stems from several factors.

Chelsea already boasts a plethora of options on the wings, including Pedro Neto, Mykhailo Mudryk, Noni Madueke and Raheem Sterling. Félix’s role on the left wing seems redundant and less feasible. Similarly, it will be difficult for Félix to play on the right half-space position, given the presence of Cole Palmer, who offers a left-footed cutting-in option and has shown strong chemistry with Madueke and Malo Gusto last season. While Félix could potentially operate as a false 9, Nicolas Jackson’s existing link-up play capabilities and Félix’s style make this role less ideal for him.

This leaves us with the left-sided No. 8 position, which aligns with Félix’s preferred role and historical heat maps indicating his effective zone of operation in the left half-space.

What Félix Offers Chelsea

Instead of a general overview, let's dissect Félix’s contributions across the three thirds of the field:

Defensive Third

Félix is not typically used for executing passes from deep and breaking high pressing structures. Instead, he excels in progressing the ball up field after receiving it. While he can assist from deep, it’s not his most effective use.

Middle Third

In breaking opposition mid-blocks, Félix’s dribbling ability becomes invaluable. His quick separation and dribbling can create gaps and disorganize the opposition’s shape. His pristine ball-carrying skills in tight spaces complement Palmer’s creative passing, providing Maresca with significant attacking flexibility.

Attacking Third

Félix adds a notable goal threat to Chelsea. His ability to create shooting opportunities through ball carries, along with his keen box movement and instincts, can significantly bolster Chelsea’s attacking prowess. Given Chelsea’s hesitance in front of goal last season, Félix’s goal-scoring capability is a welcomed addition.

Rotations and Flexibility

Maresca would also achieve the attacking fluidity he desires. Félix is capable of rotating with the left winger, which can help create space by pulling opposition markers from their initial positions. He could alternate with Palmer in-game or drift into right channels to create overloads. Although he can interchange positions with Jackson, this would be rare.

Points of Concern

Two primary concerns with Félix are his off-the-ball quality and consistency. Félix has yet to prove himself as a reliable out-of-possession asset. However, at 24, there’s room for development. Maresca will need to work on enhancing Félix’s defensive intelligence and awareness.

Félix has struggled with consistency since leaving Benfica, largely due to unstable environments. Settling into Chelsea could potentially stabilize his form, but given the high-pressure environment, it is uncertain if consistency will come easily. Nevertheless, we are optimistic.

Options, Options, and More Options

While having numerous options can be both beneficial and challenging, Félix’s unique ball-carrying threat adds diversity to Chelsea’s midfield. Although the team is already equipped with similar qualities through Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Christopher Nkunku, Félix’s addition is an asset, provided Maresca can manage game time effectively.

Game Changer Potential

One of the most exciting aspects of Félix’s transfer is his potential to be a game-changer. At 24, he still holds significant unfulfilled potential that Chelsea can harness. Adding Félix to a forward line that already includes talents like Palmer, Neto, and Nkunku could make Chelsea’s attack one of the most electrifying in the Premier League, provided Maresca finds the right balance.

In conclusion, Félix’s integration into Maresca’s system at Chelsea promises to add both tactical flexibility and attacking threat. If managed correctly, he could become a pivotal player in Chelsea’s quest for success.