Photo by Luis Veniegra/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
Photo by Luis Veniegra/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
Jorrel Hato is one of the most versatile players in Chelsea’s squad, playing at both left-back and centre-back last season.
With Marc Cucurella departing for Real Madrid, Hato is expected to start at left-back under Xabi Alonso.
However, the 20-year-old has hinted that he is prepared to play in a new position this upcoming campaign if necessary.
Split image of Chelsea's Jorrel Hato and Newcastle United's Lewis Hall
Credit: Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside/Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Jorrel Hato ready to play in midfield
In the middle of the park, Chelsea have new signing Jordan Henderson, Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia and Dario Essugo as options.
For the time being, Alonso also has Enzo Fernandez, while his Argentina teammate Valentin Barco is a midfielder, too.
If needed, though, Hato is ready to play in midfield or anywhere his manager requires him to.
In an interview with Chelsea’s official club website, Hato said: “We know the manager is very flexible with his approach, and we are like that as a team. Whether we play with a back four or a three, there are roles for me because I can play as a centre-back or as a left-back.
“I’ve also played in midfield and I do like to invert and get involved with the play, so I think I can offer the manager a good option. For me though, it doesn’t really matter. I’m happy to play wherever I’m needed, and whenever I put on the Chelsea shirt, I give my all.”
Jorrel Hato of Chelsea
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
It will be very interesting to see what Chelsea’s midfield partnership looks like in their first game of the new Premier League season.
A lot will depend on what happens with Fernandez. If the 25-year-old remains at Stamford Bridge, he will be nailed on to start alongside Caicedo.
However, if Fernandez is sold, you would expect the Blues to sign a replacement and for him to line up alongside Caicedo at Craven Cottage on 24 August.
Jorrel Hato’s best position
Technically, Hato certainly has the ability to play in midfield. As you would expect from an Ajax academy product, the Dutchman is comfortable on the ball and can pass.
Being a defender, he can obviously tackle and make interceptions as well. Nevertheless, his best position is centre-back.
When Hato played in that role last season, he read the game well, made some good tackles and blocks and was calm in possession.
Chelsea’s potential back four looks solid, but it remains to be seen whether Hato can successfully succeed Cucurella if he does become the Blues’ first-choice left-back.