As Chelsea's pre-season tour concluded in Malaysia, a fiery draw against Johor Darul Ta'zim left the club with more questions than answers. The game, a microcosm of Chelsea's current challenges, served as a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead for manager Xabi Alonso.
One thing that immediately stands out is the sheer number of forwards at Alonso's disposal. With a bloated choice of strikers, including João Pedro, Danny Welbeck, and Nicolas Jackson, the manager has a tough decision to make. Personally, I think this abundance of talent could be a double-edged sword. While it provides depth, it also creates a competitive environment that may lead to discontent among players fighting for playing time.
The young squad, reminiscent of last season's inexperience, faced a fiery opponent in JDT. The Malaysian champions, managed by the passionate Xisco Muñoz, treated the friendly like a competitive fixture. This intensity exposed Chelsea's indiscipline, with several players receiving yellow cards for dissent and unnecessary challenges. It raises a deeper question about the team's mental fortitude and ability to handle pressure situations.
What many people don't realize is that Chelsea's disciplinary issues extend beyond this game. The club received a record-breaking 11 red cards last season, indicating a systemic problem. Alonso's decision to sign veteran players like Welbeck and Jordan Henderson suggests a recognition of this issue, but it remains to be seen if these additions will be enough to address the problem.
The draw against JDT also highlighted Chelsea's lack of European football next season. With no distractions, the club will need to focus solely on domestic competitions. However, the squad's size, currently standing at 41 players, could become a logistical nightmare. Managing such a large group, especially with potential disruptions and injuries, will be a significant challenge for Alonso.
In my opinion, the upcoming weeks will be crucial for Alonso to integrate key players and find the right balance within the squad. The manager has a unique opportunity to shape the team's culture and address the disciplinary concerns. With the season fast approaching, the fun and games will indeed begin, but the real test will be in how Alonso navigates these challenges and transforms Chelsea into a cohesive and disciplined unit.
