Chelsea have been showing some impressive attacking stats this season, with their 59.4% average possession reflecting dominance in games. Scoring eight goals in their opening four matches, including a standout 6-0 win over Wolves, highlights their offensive strength. Noni Madueke’s hat-trick in that game, along with contributions from Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, and João Félix, shows that they’re getting goals from various attacking options. It’s a positive start for Chelsea, though maintaining this form will be key as they face tougher competition ahead.
Chelsea’s defensive frailties have been evident in the opening four games, with five goals conceded. Enzo Maresca will need to address this issue, especially with the goal of securing a top-four finish. A possible shake-up in the backline could be expected, particularly after Axel Disasi’s underwhelming performance in the recent 0-0 draw against Bournemouth.
Disasi, filling in at right-back due to injuries to Reece James and Malo Gusto, struggled, losing both of his duels and losing possession nine times in just 62 minutes before being substituted. His discomfort in this unfamiliar role was clear, as he often resorted to long clearances instead of playing out from the back, which is a crucial aspect of Maresca’s possession-based system.
While Disasi had a solid season last year with 44 appearances, including three goals and contributing to ten clean sheets, his performance at right-back has exposed his limitations in ball circulation and pace. A return to his natural position at centre-back, or a tactical reshuffle, could be necessary for Chelsea as they prepare to face West Ham United in their next game.
Chelsea’s injury issues with Reece James and Malo Gusto have left them searching for a solution at right-back, and Moises Caicedo presents an unorthodox yet highly effective option. The Ecuadorian midfielder, hailed as “magnificent” by Jacek Kulig, has previously demonstrated his versatility by filling in at right-back for Brighton during the 2022/23 season. Inverting from fullback into midfield under Roberto De Zerbi, Caicedo helped maintain possession, facilitate passing, and recover quickly, all while adding defensive solidity.
Using Caicedo in this role would allow Chelsea to keep the system familiar, as Gusto had been playing a similar inverted role before his injury. Caicedo’s ball retention, passing range, and defensive work rate make him an ideal candidate to step into this position. By utilizing Caicedo at right-back, Chelsea can avoid the issues seen with Axel Disasi’s discomfort and lack of composure in that role, ensuring their defensive shape remains solid while maintaining fluidity in attack.
This solution could help Chelsea stabilize their defense as they navigate the injuries in their squad, especially as they face West Ham United next.
| Caicedo stats (24/25 so far) | |
|---|---|
| Stats (per 90 mins) | Caicedo |
| Progressive Carries | 1.32 |
| Progressive Carries | 3.68 |
| Passes Attempted | 60.8 |
| Pass Completion % | 89.6% |
| Passes into Final Third | 4.74 |
| Tackles | 3.42 |
| Blocks | 1.58 |
| Interceptions | 2.11 |
| Stats taken from FBref | |
Using Moises Caicedo as an inverted right-back for Chelsea not only maintains defensive solidity but also enhances the team’s ability to control possession and progress the ball. His impressive stats of **3.42 tackles** and **2.11 interceptions per 90** highlight his defensive contributions, showing his willingness to take on the gritty aspects of the game while being effective in tight spaces under pressure. His progressive passing and ability to break the lines could help Chelsea navigate pressing situations more smoothly.
This approach would also give Chelsea tactical flexibility, allowing them to field an additional midfielder or attacker. For example, Caicedo could invert centrally alongside Enzo Fernández, opening up the possibility for **Christopher Nkunku** to be deployed as an advanced number eight. This could give Chelsea more attacking options without sacrificing defensive stability.
While it’s uncertain if Enzo Maresca will adopt this innovative setup for their game against **West Ham United**, it offers a dynamic solution to Chelsea’s current right-back dilemma and enhances both their defensive and offensive potential.
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