Willian’s decision to remain a Chelsea player in the face of interest from other clubs has divided Blues fans, and may have huge implications on Maurizio Sarri’s first-team.
The Brazil winger was strongly linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer, with Barcelona or a reunion with José Mourinho at Manchester United reported as possible destinations.
But, after confirming Barcelona’s interest in him, Willian insisted his heart was always in West London.
He said to ESPN Brazil: “I always made it clear that what I wanted was to stay in the club.”
So, with Willian returning to the Blues, what does the future hold for the players looking to fill his boots?
If we assume that Willian returns to the starting line-up in his familiar right-wing position, he would be taking the position of Pedro, who played there in Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester City in Sunday’s Community Shield.
But, having signed a new contact over the summer, it is unlikely Pedro would leave, suggesting there will be competition for the right-wing position.
Also, Chelsea’s interest in Wilfried Zaha may now cool, as he was being touted as a possible Willian replacement.
The man to suffer the most could be Victor Moses. With Sarri preferring a back-four rather than a back-three, Moses would no longer be able to fulfil the right-wing-back role that he did so well under Conte.
And, with Chelsea’s considerable attacking prowess, Moses could be heading towards an exit from Stamford Bridge after six years at the club.
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