Chelsea hosted Manchester City at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League on Sunday, needing a positive result following Liverpool’s win over Fulham.
It looked possible in the first half, but the Blues absolutely collapsed in the second 45 minutes after conceding three goals.
So, what have we learnt from Chelsea’s latest outing in the Premier League? Here are five takeaways from the game.
Chelsea shouldn’t sell Marc Cucurella
Marc Cucurella is approaching the final two years of his contract, while the 27-year-old has not ruled out a return to Barcelona.
What is Chelsea’s best centre-back partnership?
Fofana and Hato couldn't stop City.
Cucurella, though, is one of the most well-rounded full-backs in world football and showed that against City despite being on the losing team. He contained Antoine Semenyo quite well and had a goal disallowed for offside. Chelsea should think twice before entertaining any potential offers for him this summer.
Cole Palmer is fully committed to Chelsea
Cole Palmer is another Chelsea star who has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge. Last month, it was claimed that intermediaries are trying to work out the level of interest in Palmer.
However, after his display versus City, the attacking midfielder’s commitment really cannot be questioned. There were times when he was in his own box defending, which is a good sign if you are Liam Rosenior.
Cole Palmer of Chelsea
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
Jorrel Hato and Levi Colwill could be direct rivals next season
Chelsea signed Jorrel Hato to provide cover for Cucurella, but the Dutchman has done well when he has played at centre-back this season, especially under Rosenior.
He was very calm on the ball and was not bullied by Erling Haaland. Next season, he could be in a battle with Levi Colwill for the left-sided centre-back spot.
Chelsea need an aerially dominant centre-back
For as well as Hato played, it is still clear that Chelsea need a centre-half who is dominant in the air.
They have conceded a lot of goals from corners and crosses this season, and it was no different on Sunday afternoon after Nico O’Reilly’s header.
Moises Caicedo and Andrey Santos midfield too safe
Moises Caicedo was at fault for City’s third goal, but even before that, the Chelsea vice-captain on the day was not having a great game.
Caicedo and his midfield partner Andrey Santos did not really help the team construct any attacks, crumbling under City’s pressure. They constantly played the ball sideways; all their passes were safe. Going forward, Chelsea need either Romeo Lavia or Enzo Fernandez in the middle of the park.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox