Chelsea Football Club’s humiliating 5-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium was not shocking, but rather a reflection of Chelsea’s inconsistent performances on their bad days. While they have managed to raise their level against stronger opponents this season, they often appear callow, uncertain, disorganized, naive, and wasteful. The difference in this match was that they faced an opponent with the tools to punish them for their shortcomings.
Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea’s head coach, admitted that the team was so bad on their bad days and capable of everything when they are good. However, this claim seems hyperbolic considering that the team has fallen short every time they have reached the brink of a significant achievement this season. Pochettino’s attempt to find positives amidst the embarrassment led to a muddled post-match analysis.
Pochettino emphasized that injuries have been a major factor in Chelsea’s struggles this season. However, there are also hints that he doubts the construction of the squad and the team’s ability to reach greater heights. He walks a fine line between motivating his young players and signaling to the club’s sporting directors and owners that they may have reached their limits.
The match against Arsenal exposed the flaws in Pochettino’s starting XI, many of whom were part of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital’s lavish recruitment drive. The midfield partnership of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo failed to offer control, while Marc Cucurella struggled against Arsenal’s strong left side. Mykhailo Mudryk showed little understanding of the system, and the central defensive partnership of Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile looked frail.
In attack, Noni Madueke had bright moments, but Alfie Gilchrist suffered from a lack of protection at right-back. Nicolas Jackson showed promise with his movement and direct running but lacked confidence in his finishes. The question arises of whether these players are benefiting from the collective experience of the season, if they are being put in the best position to succeed, and if the club can justify the significant investment made in them.
Cole Palmer’s consistent brilliance has helped mask these questions when Chelsea has won and provided hope for the future. However, in his absence, the entire project comes under scrutiny. It remains to be seen if Chelsea can overcome their inconsistencies and reach their full potential.