The story so far
After a bad start against Burnley, it has been business as usual for Antonio Conte and co. as Chelsea have picked up impressive wins over Tottenham Hotspur and the supposed dark horses for this season, Everton.
Conte won’t be overjoyed with the transfer business Chelsea have managed, but they have added a few fresh faces who could help them retain the Premier League trophy and potentially go deep in the Champions League.
Here’s their best XI with everyone fit.
Formation: 3-4-3
GK: Thibaut Courtois
Strong in goal, tall and quick to respond, one of the best in the league. Golden Glove winner of last season, hence has cemented his spot.
RCB: Cesar Azpilicueta
Best defender in the league if judged on consistency. Can put in delicious balls when it’s open down the right, best one-on-one defender, heads the ball well, tackles precisely and is a class act. A team man.
CB: David Luiz
Once deemed a bad defender, Luiz has silence his critics in the last few seasons. The protection offered to him has played a key role, but his ball-playing skills are still a key cog in the Chelsea side.
LCB: Gary Cahill
Will face stiff competition with Rudiger, but is expected to play as Captain and is braver, more technical and possesses amazing positioning abilities.
RWB: Victor Moses
Will be tested as Davide Zappacosta has arrived, but is strong and has been a revelation under Conte’s Chelsea. He is swifter, can turn quickly, dribble all alone, quickly to counter, cross and run at players. Gets important goals too.
LWB: Marcos Alonso
The new darling of Stamford Bridge and is probably the most all-round player in the team. Goals, assists, crosses, free kicks, tackles, interceptions, aerial battles; he has got everything.
CM: Cesc Fabregas
Has a good competition with Kanté, Drinkwater and Bakayoko, but is the king of the pitch. He links up with attackers, tackles, wins the ball back, initiates the play and adds creativity to the team.
CM: N’Golo Kanté
Best tackler and ball winner. He is suited to Conte’s system and can accelerate during attack too, at will. Has provided able cover to the back three.
LW: Eden Hazard
Best in the league and can do anything up front. He can take the opposition on his own, create chances, take on players, score goals and is one of the most innovative of players. Unplayable on his day.
RW: Pedro
Probably the best headache for Conte. Willian or Pedro? Pedro because he is more direct, more of a goal scoring threat.
ST: Alvaro Morata
Has quietly started off brilliantly, scoring 2 and setting up 2. Can be the best in the league and replace Costa contrary to popular belief.
