Enzo Maresca shows his class with two surprise Chelsea decisions in Arsenal game that blew everyone away

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Chelsea and Arsenal produced one of the best tactical games in a while but Chelsea boss showed he’d arrived.

Chelsea had gone without a win in their last five games against Arsenal heading into this match, with many focusing on the embarrassing 4-0 defeat at the Emirates and the 2-2 draw in which Sanchez gave the ball away. But this Chelsea team was different, they were aggressive, full of promise, and eager to prove themselves. When the team sheets were announced, many were surprised to see captain Reece James not in the starting lineup. A few eyebrows were raised, but once the game kicked off, it became clear why the manager made this decision.

Reece James was just returning from a long-term muscle injury, and Arsenal, these days, are explosive on the counter-attack and brilliant with set pieces. So, the manager opted for Malo Gusto, who is as quick as they come. Gusto was tasked with always being the last man when a run was being made.

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Gusto was alert to his role, and given the sprinting power required, it was a smart move not to risk James. Instead, the manager went with a player who had been so impressive since his signing, ensuring the team maintained the balance they needed.

Chelsea were set up in a similar way to how Mikel Arteta sets up his team. Both teams featured a left-footed playmaker, and each had a full-back underlapping into midfield to try and influence the game. The key difference was that Arsenal were more physical and made the most of their set pieces, while Chelsea were quicker on the break, with Neto and Noni Madueke often on the move when the team transitioned forward.

It’s clear that Chelsea are heading in the right direction under their Italian manager. His tactical brilliance, shifting things around each game, is a joy to watch for fans at Stamford Bridge.

When Gabriel Martinelli put Arsenal ahead, the Chelsea manager didn’t panic. He made two immediate changes, bringing on Enzo Fernandez and Mykhailo Mudryk. It was Fernandez who would eventually provide the assist to level things up for the home side.

If there’s one thing certain about this Chelsea team, it’s that they are a group of players with tremendous potential, and their spirit remains unshakable.

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