Chelsea fans here in the Football Transfer Tavern were delighted with the start that their side made to the Premier League this past weekend, and they think they could go all the way this season.
A particular highlight of the opening day was the cohesion that The Blues had throughout their XI, particularly within Chelsea’s new look five man midfield.
Utilising a formation which saw N’Golo Kante play just in front of the Chelsea back four whilst his four midfield teammates played alongside each other further forward – The Blues had the perfect balance between midfield and attack in the heart of their side.
Whilst the Chelsea midfield performed admirably, rumours linking The Blues with Real Madrid midfielder James Rodriguez just won’t go away – and it has left Blues fans here in the Football Transfer Tavern wondering where he would fit into the side.
There is no doubting that he has the quality to make an impact at the Bridge, and when combined with Chelsea’s core midfield stars – he could be absolutely unstoppable.
In fact, our landlord reckons that if The Blues can bag James Rodriguez this season, they could be real title contenders this season.
With that, this is the potential new-look Chelsea midfield including James Rodriguez…
CDM – N’Golo Kante
N’Golo Kante assured Chelsea fans here in the Tavern that he was certainly not a one season wonder with an impressive performance on the opening day.
He looked commanding in midfield, giving the Chelsea defence an extra layer that they lacked last season.
If he continues his fine form going forward; our Landlord reckons he could become the signing of the summer.
LW – Eden Hazard
If anyone had any doubts that Eden Hazard would be back to his best this season – the Belgian attacker certainly proved them all wrong with a stunning opening day performance.
Providing support both offensively and defensively, Hazard never stopped running and an impressive performance was capped off with unstoppable penalty to take the Blues 1-0 up just after half time.
The Eden Hazard of old is certainly back; and he could be the difference maker this season.
CM – Nemanja Matic
Nemanja Matic proved on the opening day that there is a lot more to his game than simply being a shield for his back four.
Under Mourinho he was mostly utilised as a defensive midfielder, but playing further up the field as dictated by Antonio Conte proved that Matic has the passing ability, the legs and the dribbling to be a real threat playing alongside a more attacking four man midfield.
He contrasts well alongside his central midfield partner, offering defensive stability when necessary but also driving through and supplying balls forward.
If he can get back to his best form; Matic could be unstoppable this season…
CM – James Rodriguez
James Rodriguez exploded onto the scene after the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and after a stunning few weeks for his native Columbia he joined Real Madrid in a huge move.
Since that point his career has been up and down; often failing to solidify his position in the Madrid first team on a weekly basis – and that has led to rumours this summer surrounding his future.
With Chelsea interested, he would no doubt fit into the side ahead of Oscar, and with Fabregas seemingly on the move – Rodriguez could find himself a key part of the Chelsea set up next season.
Top set pieces and unbelievable technical ability; Rodriguez will become a world class player if he is given the chance.
RW – Willian
Willian didn’t have a perfect game against West Ham – but after a standout season last year, we think the majority of the Chelsea fans here in the Football Transfer Tavern will forgive him for one average performance.
Willian still maintains an enviable work rate, technical brilliance and a fantastic set piece – making him the complete midfielder and one of the first names on the Chelsea team sheet.
Expect him to get better and better as the season goes on and he gets up to speed.
