Timo Werner was confirmed as Chelsea‘s new signing today. After month-long speculation, finally, the Blues’ fans have a lot to cheer for. With Hakim Ziyech already snapped up from Ajax, there is a new rush of players coming in at Stamford Bridge. But with new stars, comes new competition.
A big talking point is the number of players Frank Lampard has now got as his attacking options. There are about six players in the squad currently who can play in any position up-front in the final third. Notable mentions include young stars like Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount in addition to new arrivals in Werner and Ziyech.
This article will analyze the best positions for Chelsea’s new stars for next season – Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech.
Analyzing Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech’s Best Positions at Chelsea
Ziyech – More of a False Nine Rather Than a Winger
Hakim Ziyech has been constantly showing off his skills and technique all across Europe since the 2018-19 Champions League dream run. The Moroccan is probably one of the most complete left-footed players in Europe right now.
But there is a big catch to the midfielder’s game; Ziyech is definitely not the fastest players on the pitch. This is especially so in a squad which boasts Mason Mount, Christian Pulisic, Callum Hudson-Odoi and now Timo Werner.
A lot has been said about Ziyech being an upgrade over Willian in the right-winger role. It is highly unlikely that the 27-year-old would be at his best in the pacey Premier League.
Rather, he could be a perfect weapon for Lampard just behind the striker. Considering Chelsea’s current formation, he could also fit in great in an advanced midfield role alongside Mateo Kovacic or N’golo Kante (with Jorginho playing the regista role).
Lampard would have to change his formation to get the best of Ziyech, for sure.
Timo Werner – a Versatile Attacker
Thanks to his amazing burst of pace, Timo Werner could fit in at any position in the front-three.
Julian Nagelsmann has usually played him as a centre-forward for much of this season. The German drifts to the left flank often to give more width to the team and find spaces in the opposition defence. This suggests that the RB Leipzig forward could actually play as a left-winger too.
If Lampard decides to play Werner as the main striker, Tammy Abraham’s Chelsea career could be in jeopardy. Also, Werner at the left-wing would mean Pulisic, Mount and Hudson-Odoi trying to fit in unusual roles.
Werner’s versatility could actually give Lampard a head-ache; apt team Selection is going to be a crucial decision for Chelsea next season.
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