“Enzo Maresca mistake revealed” – Chelsea told exactly what they need to fix after Crystal Palace game – it involves Moises Caicedo

Chelsea’s Missing Link Revealed After Palace Stalemate: Caicedo Needs a Partner

Chelsea’s ongoing struggles were on full display again as they faltered to a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday. The result added to their growing frustrations, with the Blues now three games without a win in the Premier League.

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A Missed Opportunity

Coming off back-to-back defeats to Ipswich Town and Fulham, Chelsea had plenty to prove. Jadon Sancho’s dazzling assist to Cole Palmer secured an early lead with Palmer notching his 13th league goal of the season. However, the Blues couldn’t hold on, with Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta delivering a late equalizer to split the points.

This inability to maintain control late in games has become a recurring theme for Enzo Maresca’s side, leaving fans and pundits questioning their game management.

Danny Murphy Highlights Tactical Flaws

BBC pundit Danny Murphy didn’t mince words when pointing out Chelsea’s shortcomings. According to Murphy, the team lacks the tactical discipline to manage games effectively, especially when leading.

“Chelsea’s issue is game management. They need to recognize when to slow things down, drop players back, and maintain defensive shape. Instead, they’re too focused on attacking, which leaves them vulnerable,” Murphy explained on BBC Radio 5 Live.

He compared the Palace match to their recent loss against Fulham, describing the chaotic end-to-end nature of both games as “like basketball.”

Murphy believes the answer lies in pairing Moises Caicedo with another defensive midfielder who can help anchor the midfield and bring balance.

Romeo Lavia: The Missing Piece

The solution to Chelsea’s problems might already be in their squad. Young Belgian midfielder Romeo Lavia, who has been sidelined with a thigh injury, could be exactly what the team needs.

At just 20 years old, Lavia has shown remarkable composure and defensive stability in his appearances this season. When fit, he thrives in the No. 6 role, providing much-needed structure in the middle of the park.

Lavia’s presence alongside Caicedo could transform Chelsea’s midfield. This duo would not only strengthen the defensive base but also free up Enzo Fernandez to push higher up the field, adding creativity to the attack.

The Road Ahead

While Lavia’s injury history is concerning, his return could be pivotal for Chelsea. Reports suggest he’s “very close” to regaining fitness after missing five consecutive league matches. If he can stay healthy, he has the potential to be a game-changer for the Blues in the second half of the season.

Darren Bent also praised the idea of a Lavia-Caicedo pairing, calling it a “solid double pivot” that would bring much-needed assurance to the team’s defensive setup.

Chelsea fans will be eagerly awaiting Lavia’s return, hoping his presence can help the team finally turn their fortunes around.