Chelsea were knocked out of the EFL Cup after losing to Arsenal, but the result was not the main talking point. Instead, fans and experts focused on the tactics used by Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior. The players were playing in a very unusual manner, with players in new positions. After the match, Trevoh Chalobah expressed his honest views. He explained what the manager wanted and why the players trusted the plan, although the game did not end in the manner they wanted.
Trevoh Chalobah on Chelsea’s Strange Team Selection
Before the match even started, many people were surprised by Chelsea’s starting team. Rosenior chose five defenders and played Liam Delap and Enzo Fernandez on the wings. This was not something fans expected in such a big game. Pundit Gary Neville quickly noticed that Delap looked uncomfortable playing so wide on the pitch.
However, Trevoh Chalobah made it clear that the players understood the idea behind the setup. The manager told them to stay calm and not rush. Chelsea knew they had the full 90 minutes to try and score. The plan was to keep the game close and not give Arsenal easy chances early on.
Chelsea defended well in the first half. They remained organised and did not panic. The players executed the instructions and relied on the system. Although they did not create many scoring opportunities in the first half, the team felt that the game could change later.
Trevoh Chalobah Backs Liam Rosenior’s Gameplan
In the second half, Chelsea began to push forward more. Cole Palmer and Estevao Willian were brought on to add speed and creativity. This was always part of the plan. Rosenior hoped fresh attacking players could make the difference late in the game.
Sadly for Chelsea, the chances did not come. Arsenal stayed strong at the back and limited space. In the final moments, Kai Havertz scored a late goal that ended Chelsea’s hopes of reaching the final.
After the match, Trevoh Chalobah spoke to Sky Sports and defended the tactics. He said the manager asked the players to stay relaxed and not feel pressure.
Chalobah said the team played with belief and followed the instructions well. He felt the players were pushing until the end and did not give up. When asked if the plan worked, Chalobah answered confidently that he believed it did.
Fans and Pundits React to Chelsea’s Performance
Not everyone agreed with Chalobah’s view. Some fans were confused and frustrated. Many felt Chelsea should have attacked earlier in the game. On social media, supporters questioned why key players did not start.
Paul Merson was also critical. He said he did not understand why Chelsea played in such a defensive way when they needed goals. However, not all feedback was negative. Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice said Chelsea were unlucky and could have scored on another day. This showed that players on the pitch saw things differently from those watching at home.
What This Result Means for Chelsea
This defeat is disappointing, but it is not the end of Chelsea’s season. The club’s main focus is the Premier League. Finishing in the top four and qualifying for the Champions League is far more important.
Rosenior’s time as Chelsea boss will not be judged by one cup match. The support from players like Chalobah shows there is trust inside the squad. Chelsea now need to learn from this game and improve their attacking play.
Author’s Opinion
In conclusion, Chelsea return to action this weekend against Wolves away from home. It is a big test. Fans will be watching closely to see how Rosenior responds and whether Chelsea can bounce back with a strong performance.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
As featured on GoonerNews.com
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