Real Madrid have drawn Chelsea in the Champions League knock out stages for the third consecutive season. It is a relatively familiar opponent, but much has changed for the English club in the past year, from owner to manager. So what can Los Blancos expect from their quarter-final opponents?
Graham Potter had a difficult time finding continuity in his line ups, to say the least. Key players such as Reece James, N’Golo Kante, and Thiago Silva have had to deal with injuries, not to mention the several first-team players brought in during the January window that only gave him more selection headaches.
Ultimately, Potter was shown the exit door and Frank Lampard has been brought in as caretaker manager until the end of the season just days ago. Thus, it is difficult to know how Chelsea will set up against Real Madrid, but there are a few places in the squad that are pretty much locked down.
Enzo Fernandez will surely start as one member of the midfield, and the Argentine has impressed during his time at the club, despite their terrible overall form. He is still very young and inexperienced though, so Real Madrid’s veterans in midfield should give the side an edge, while the likes of Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurelien Tchouameni can match his youthful energy.
What can Real Madrid expect from Chelsea in the Champions League?
Joao Felix and Kai Havertz have been ever present as two members of the front three, as both look to drop in between the midfield and defensive lines to link play. Real Madrid’s centre-backs will need to be in constant communication with the defensive midfielder on the day to not allow either player to find space and turn with the ball, as that is where they are at their best.
If healthy, Ben Chilwell and James are expected to occupy the flanks regardless of formation. Chelsea are at their best when engaging their fullbacks in attack, so Vinicius Junior and whoever is on the right will need to be active defensively. Real Madrid should also look to take advantage of this on counter attacks, and try to catch out the Blues when vulnerable.
Chelsea have had an inconsistent season, and it is difficult to predict how they will perform in the Champions League. Real Madrid must not underestimate them though, and identifying the foundations of their squad is the starting point of a strong game plan.