Chelsea is presently confronted with the predicament of an overcrowded midfield. The potential transfer of Enzo Maresca looms, casting uncertainty on the future of the club’s midfield. Currently, the team boasts eight skilled central midfielders, including the recent addition of Omari Kellyman. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Cesare Casadei, Andrey Santos, Lesley Ugochukwu, Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and Conor Gallagher are all competing for a place in the squad.
The tactical strategy of Enzo Maresca, employing a 4-3-3 formation, adds a layer of complexity to the decision-making process. With three positions available, competition among Chelsea’s midfielders is intense. Furthermore, the system involves a shift to a 3-2-5 formation when the team is in possession, posing additional challenges for the midfielders.
The dilemma stems from the fact that Chelsea’s two most expensive midfielders, Fernandez and Caicedo, excel in the build-up phase but have struggled to have impact further up the field. Maresca’s arrival could result in a change in their responsibilities, limiting opportunities for other midfielders to shine.
Dewsbury-Hall, Gallagher, and Chukwuemeka are also vying for a place in the midfield hierarchy, with Maresca likely to select a trio comprising of Fernandez, Caicedo, and Dewsbury-Hall. This leaves the future uncertain for Gallagher, a strong candidate for a spot in the squad. Chukwuemeka may also need to further prove himself to secure a place in the team.
The current scenario has led to a lack of significant interest in midfielders during the transfer window, with attention shifting to other positions such as left-backs, goalkeepers, and strikers.
In light of these developments, it remains to be seen how the midfield predicament will be resolved at Chelsea. While the addition of Dewsbury-Hall has undoubtedly bolstered the squad, the final selection of midfielders is still undecided.