Jorrel Hato and Moises Caicedo helped to limit Arsenal’s threat in Chelsea’s 2-1 loss to the Gunners over the weekend.
In the end, Arsenal could only score from two set pieces, while they were also aided by Pedro Neto’s red card.
Hato and Caicedo’s efforts went to waste, but Liam Rosenior can be pleased with their contributions to the London derby.
Liam Rosenior has claimed that Pedro Neto was a threat before his red card 🤔
Pedro Neto's stats vs Arsenal
Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Jorrel Hato’s number of defensive actions in Chelsea’s 2-1 loss to Arsenal
With Marc Cucurella injured, Hato was afforded a rare start in the Premier League against Arsenal. It was only his fourth of the season, and the defender was being thrown into a very difficult match.
Hato had to face Bukayo Saka, but he fared quite well and restricted the Arsenal winger. In total, Hato made 10 defensive actions, as per Sofascore.
Caicedo was the only Chelsea player to make more than him, recording 11. That is a very good look for Hato given that Caicedo is one of the best defensive players in the division.
Three of Hato’s defensive actions were tackles, while another three were interceptions. He also made four clearances on the afternoon.
Jorrel Hato of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Chelsea
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Hato always faced a difficult task following his £37m move from Ajax. In Cucurella, he is challenging arguably the best left-back in the Premier League for his spot. It is no surprise that the Dutchman has made fewer than five starts in the top flight.
However, Hato has really grasped his opportunities under Rosenior, who has trusted him a bit more than Enzo Maresca did, and deserves further chances.
Chelsea’s next game is against Aston Villa, who will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers. If Cucurella is not fit enough to feature, Hato has to start.
Marc Cucurella is Chelsea’s most-underrated player. Discuss 👇
It was not the perfect performance, but Hato showed plenty of promise at the Emirates. There is a lot to like about him, with the Netherlands international also capable of playing at centre-back.
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