“Risk of playing for Chelsea” – Three Chelsea players set to be drop as Enzo Maresca struggles continues
Enzo Maresca’s tactical system at Chelsea has come under scrutiny, with several players struggling to adapt amid a run of poor results. If the crisis continues, the manager may be forced to make tough decisions and drop key players who are not delivering.
Among those at risk of being axed are Marc Cucurella, Malo Gusto and Reece James, all of whom have been deployed in roles that limit their effectiveness.
Cucurella and Gusto have been used in unnatural inverted full-back roles, restricting their impact both offensively and defensively. The tactical shift has seen both players struggle to provide width and creativity, with their attacking output significantly reduced.
Similarly, club captain James has often been utilised in central areas rather than his preferred right-back position. While James possesses the technical ability to play inside, his effectiveness has diminished away from his natural role, raising questions over whether he should remain in the starting XI.
With Chelsea’s form dipping and pressure mounting on Maresca, a tactical rethink may be necessary. If results do not improve, changes in both system and personnel seem inevitable as the Blues look to salvage their season.