Graham Potter’s new Chelsea system is a nightmare for one summer signing – opinion
Graham Potter has elected to play a back four in the two Chelsea games since Premier League football returned.
Marc Cucurella, Thiago Silva and Kalidou Koulibaly have been starters in the fixtures against Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest, while Cesar Azpilicueta and Reece James have both started games on the right.
However, it is clear to see one player in particular has struggled to adapt to the new system at Stamford Bridge.
After being signed in the summer, the Senegal international has already struggled to live up to the expectations set upon him when he was signed as the direct replacement to Antonio Rudiger.
It’s universally accepted that the club had made a mistake in not tying the German down to a new contract before his deal expired last summer.
Koulibaly in danger
However, signing someone who had dominated Serie A for a number of seasons at the back looked a fair replacement. Instead, Blues fans have endured a shaky start to his time in England.
The match against Nottingham Forest on New Years’ Day showed every weakness he has threatened this campaign.
He was consistently outpaced and outmanoeuvred by Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi, a player who has only three Premier League goals to his name this season.
There will no doubt be bigger tests coming for the Blues. Look no further than Thursday when they welcome a wounded Manchester City to their home.
It is unclear whether Potter looks to resume with the new system for the mammoth task of two games against Pep Guardiola in a week. There is almost certainly going to be heavy rotation for the FA Cup tie.
However, with Benoit Badiashile set to be added to the ranks, and Wesley Fofana only weeks away from what’s hopefully a permanent return to fitness, there are worrying times ahead for Koulibaly.
