Brentford’s Thomas Frank claims the main difference he’s spotted at Chelsea since Graham Potter replaced Thomas Tuchel as the club’s manager is the change in formations.
Tuchel, who was sacked as Blues manager last month, exited Stamford Bridge as someone that is still loved by the majority of the fanbase. However, this fast-paced sport means supporters are now fully behind their new head coach.
Potter left Brighton to take on by far his biggest job to date, which has started with five victories and a draw from six matches.
Next, his side travel to Brentford on Wednesday night in the Premier League.
Difference since Potter replaced Tuchel
Brentford manager Frank has been discussing Chelsea before tonight’s league clash against them.
When asked the differences between Tuchel and Potter at Chelsea, Frank responded: “I think the style of play is not too different. I think both managers want to dominate the ball and dominate the games. In many ways, I don’t see a big difference there.
“What the biggest change is he (Potter) is more flexible in his approach to systems/shape every game. That is the biggest change I’ve seen so far.”
Chelsea fans have seen a back three formation at times under Potter that is reminiscent of the style under the previous manager, but there’s no doubt it’s a lot more unpredictable to follow over the course of 90 minutes.
The Blues are flexible in systems that often look very different in and out of possession.
Potter showed his unique thinking very early when he even tried Sterling in a hybrid wing-back position.
As well as the unpredictable line-ups and formations, it does feel like this new-look Chelsea side are trying to be more progressive with their passing.
It’s been great to see the Blues rediscover some defensive stability, too. In-form goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has four clean sheets in a row.
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