Five things Chelsea must do to ensure victory against Arsenal on Sunday
Blues fans had mixed emotions as Chelsea were held to a 1-1 draw by Manchester United. The Blues were resilient but missed chances and defensive errors ultimately cost them victory.
As Chelsea prepare for a crucial Premier League game against Arsenal on November 10, there are five areas manager Enzo Maresca and his team need to address to improve their chances of securing three points.
(1) STRENGTHEN THE DEFENSE
Chelsea’s defense looked vulnerable against Manchester United. The Blues showed the need for strict discipline after conceding a penalty for impatience in their own penalty area.
Arsenal’s attack, with the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz, can exploit even the smallest hole in the defense. Chelsea’s backline, which includes Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill must stay compact, communicate effectively, and avoid unnecessary fouls that could lead to penalties for Arsenal.
In addition, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca should stop the practice of using right-backs as left-backs and allow Mark Cucurella to start as a left-back. Chelsea’s defensive structure and discipline could make the difference in this match.
(2) CHELSEA’S STRIKERS HAVE TO IMPROVE
Nicholas Jackson and Noni Madueke struggled to impress in the 1-1 draw with Manchester United. Both players had opportunities to influence the game but failed to show the clarity and creativity needed to dominate their opponents.
If Chelsea are to overcome Arsenal’s solid defense, Jackson and Madueke will need to improve their performances, show composure in front of goal, and make better decisions in the final third.
Jackson managed just one shot against Manchester United, while Madueke’s pace and trickery did not trouble Manchester United’s defense. Both players will need to be at their best against Arsenal on Sunday if Chelsea are to improve their chances of victory at Stamford Bridge.
(3) MAINTAIN CONTROL IN MIDFIELD
The midfield game against Arsenal will be important. Arsenal have a solid midfield led by Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard. However, it is unlikely that Rice will be available for the game due to injury.
To win the midfield battle for Chelsea, Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia will need to prove themselves as destroyers and playmakers. The ability to maintain possession, thwart Arsenal’s forward moves, and initiate Chelsea’s attacks will be important.
If this duo can consistently disrupt Arsenal’s play and switch quickly in attack, it will be to Chelsea’s advantage. In addition, the high-tempo play in midfield allows Chelsea to nullify Arsenal’s attempts to dictate the course of the game.
(4) EFFECTIVE SELECTION AND SQUAD ROTATION
Chelsea have a lot of games and Premier League and UEFA Conference League matches and this requires physical and mental stamina from the players. Chelsea will play against Noah in the conference league. This means Maresca’s players will have limited recovery time to ensure they are ready to face Arsenal.
Given these busy schedules, coaches must take a strategic approach to roster rotations to prevent fatigue and potential injuries. Maresca could consider resting key players ahead of the Noah game in preparation for the Arsenal game.
This also allows players around you to increase their match fitness and be better prepared when needed. Rotation isn’t just about resting players. This is to keep the roster together and ensure there is healthy competition for spots in the lineup.
(5) COLE PALMER’S RECOVERY FROM INJURY IS IMPORTANT
Cole Palmer picked up an injury from the game against Manchester United following a hard tackle from defender Lisandro Martinez. Despite the setback, his fitness is now a concern for the big game against Arsenal.
Palmer quickly established himself as Chelsea’s key player, consistently providing the creativity and vision the team needed in the final third.
Arsenal’s defense is organized and can be difficult to break down, so Palmer’s presence could make the difference in creating chances.
His ability to link up with midfielders and forwards gives Chelsea’s attack a unique fluidity, giving the likes of Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke more space and scoring opportunities.
Without Palmer, Chelsea may struggle to find the extra spark they need to tear Arsenal’s backline apart. Ensuring he is available for Sunday’s game is vital if Chelsea hope to get a positive result. conclusion
The match between Chelsea and Arsenal will be an important test for Enzo Maresca’s team. After a draw with Manchester United that looked like a missed opportunity, Chelsea now have the chance to prove their worth against one of the best teams in the league.
CONCLUSION
By fixing their defensive weaknesses, improving their finishing, controlling the midfield, rotating the team carefully and managing injuries effectively,
Chelsea can put themselves in a strong position to get a positive result. This game is not just a three-point win, it is an opportunity for Chelsea to show that they are a team that can compete with the best in the Premier League.
If they can get these five key areas right, Blues fans can look forward to an exciting and rewarding meeting with Arsenal.