Chelsea have dropped more points following their 2-2 draw with Bournemouth, but there are some positives to take from the game.
For example, one youngster put in a terrific performance and was unfortunate not to have scored or provided an assist for Enzo Maresca’s side.
That player is, of course, Estevao Willian, who has to start games for Chelsea now after that display.
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Following their 2-2 draw with Bournemouth, Chelsea have now won just one of their last seven games in the Premier League.
Chelsea’s previous seven league results:
Chelsea 2-2 Bournemouth
Chelsea 1-2 Aston Villa
Newcastle United 2-2 Chelsea
Chelsea 2-0 Everton
Bournemouth 0-0 Chelsea
Leeds United 3-1 Chelsea
Chelsea 1-1 Arsenal
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As well as the Brazilian, Enzo Fernandez also performed well and was another positive for the Blues.
Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea celebrates scoring
Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Chelsea need Enzo Fernandez at his best against Manchester City after Moises Caicedo suspension
Fernandez looks to have discovered a bit of form and it has come at the perfect time, with Chelsea taking on Manchester City next.
Following his yellow card on Tuesday night, which was his fifth in the Premier League this season, Maresca will be without Moises Caicedo for the trip to the Etihad. It is why the Chelsea manager needs his other £100m midfielder, Fernandez, at his best.
Fernandez’s form has been on the decline, but he was excellent against Bournemouth and not just because he scored his side’s second goal.
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According to Sofascore, the Argentine was also able to register one key pass and win two of the three tackles he attempted. Fernandez won five out of eight ground duels and three out of four aerial duels as well.
All in all, it was quite a complete midfield display, which Chelsea need to see more of when he starts in the engine room.
Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea celebrates scoring
Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images
What Chelsea’s midfield at the Etihad could look like
With Caicedo suspended, Maresca is going to have to make at least one change to Chelsea’s midfield for Sunday’s game against City.
Fernandez could retain his spot there, while Reece James comes in to support him. If that happens, then again, Maresca needs to see the Argentina international perform at his optimal level.
Given the quality of City, though, Maresca may also be contemplating putting Fernandez in the No.10 position with James and Andrey Santos perhaps playing behind him. It would require Cole Palmer to move out to the right, but it is a position that the attacking midfielder is also comfortable playing in.
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