Leicester City 1-2 Chelsea: Five things we learnt as the Blues tame the Foxes

Chelsea secured their third away win of the season with an important victory against Leicester City.

Despite a late scare from Jordan Ayew’s penalty, the Blues held firm and took all three points back to the capital, ahead of their clash with Aston Villa next weekend.

Goals from Nicolas Jackson and Enzo Fernández, along with strong individual performances across the pitch, marked another step in the promising start to Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea tenure.

Enzo Fernandez brings the creativity

Fernández claimed the Player of the Match award, delivering a goal and assist that secured all three points for Chelsea. He also had the joint-most chance creations, showcasing today just how vital his creativity is in Chelsea’s midfield. His performance brings him to five assists and one goal in his last three games for the Blues. Yet, questions persist: what is Chelsea’s best midfield partnership, and can they optimise balance and effectiveness in the centre of the pitch based on the opposition?

Nicolas Jackson’s growth could redefine Chelsea’s transfer strategy

Jackson’s opener today means no player in the league has scored more away goals than him this season, and it also brings his tally to seven in the Premier League. His performance showcased his growing maturity and all-around game, with noticeable praise for his improved finishing and sharp touches in build-up play. As his development continues, questions remain: should Chelsea persist with Jackson as their lone number nine, entrusting him with the responsibility to lead the line, or should the club revisit the transfer market for a striker as they did last summer?

Leicester 1-2 Chelsea – Jam in 60 secs

I’ll take it with that starting XI after an international break

🎥 | @Carefree_Jam #CFCSocial | #CFC pic.twitter.com/II51btFr3L

— The Chelsea Social (@TheChelsSocial) November 23, 2024

Robert Sánchez’s inconsistent performance continues to fuel goalkeeper worries

Robert Sánchez continues to look shaky and uncertain with the ball at his feet, a concern that was palpable from the reaction of Chelsea’s traveling fans at the King Power Stadium. Although he wasn’t heavily tested today, with most of the game played in Leicester’s half, his decision-making while playing out from the back raised eyebrows. On a few occasions, Sánchez attempted risky passes, some of which were deflected back dangerously off Leicester players, further fuelling doubts about his confidence under pressure.

Benoit Badiashile impresses on his return to the Chelsea team

Benoît Badiashile provided a reminder of the quality he displayed during his standout first season at Chelsea. Solid, composed, and confident, he was a key figure today, registering more successful passes (90/101), final third passes (17), ball recoveries (7), and interceptions (4) than any other player on the pitch. Maresca’s 3-1-6 setup played to the Frenchman’s strengths, enabling him to distribute effectively while maintaining defensive composure. His assured performance has undoubtedly given Maresca something to think about moving forward, even with Gusto’s return potentially reshuffling the defensive lineup.

1️⃣0️⃣1️⃣ passes (most on the pitch)
4️⃣ interceptions (most on the pitch)
1️⃣ blocked shot (most for Chelsea)

How good was Benoit today? 👏🇫🇷#CFC | #LEICHE pic.twitter.com/ij1u8sg3ab

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) November 23, 2024

Defensive struggles continue for Chelsea

Chelsea have now conceded four penalties this season – two more than any other team in the league – a worrying trend for the Blues. Many felt Wesley Fofana could have been penalised for another potential spot-kick today, highlighting a recurring issue of inexperience and rash decision-making within this youthful side. Defensive concerns weren’t limited to the backline; the midfield was often overrun, perhaps a consequence of Moisés Caicedo being left as the sole midfielder at times. These lapses raise questions about the team’s structure and discipline as they look to tighten up defensively moving forward.

Written by Abbie Jensen (@abbiiiieex)

Edited by Harrison Burridge (@hburridge2)

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