Chelsea Football Club is facing uncertainty over Ben Chilwell’s future following the appointment of Enzo Maresca as their new manager. Maresca, who previously managed Leicester City, has signaled a desire for tactical versatility and is reportedly planning significant changes to the squad ahead of the new season.

According to a report by The Telegraph, Maresca is implementing what is being termed the ‘Swiss Army Knife’ masterplan. This strategy emphasizes the versatility of players who can perform effectively in multiple positions across different formations. The Italian manager is keen on acquiring Riccardo Calafiori, a left-footed defender from Italy, who could slot into either a traditional left-back role in a four-man defense or as a left center-back in a back-three formation.

Chelsea’s potential departures and tactical shifts

The potential arrival of Riccardo Calafiori raises questions about the future of current Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell. Chilwell, who joined Chelsea from Leicester City in 2020, has been a regular starter and a key player in their defensive setup. However, Maresca’s preference for tactical flexibility and the introduction of new defensive strategies could see Chilwell facing increased competition for his position or potentially being deemed surplus to requirements.

Alongside Chilwell, defender Trevoh Chalobah’s future at Chelsea is also uncertain under the new managerial regime. Chalobah has shown promise but may need to adapt to Maresca’s tactical demands to secure his place in the squad. Meanwhile, midfielder Conor Gallagher, who spent the previous season on loan at Crystal Palace, faces an uncertain future amidst continued interest from Premier League clubs Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa.

Maresca’s tactical preferences suggest a shift towards a more fluid and adaptable style of play. Players like Reece James and Marc Cucurella, known for their versatility and attacking prowess, could be deployed as wing-backs on the right and left flanks, respectively, in a three-man defense. Alternatively, they might be utilized as inverted midfielders, providing defensive cover while also contributing to Chelsea’s attacking phases.

This tactical flexibility aims to provide Chelsea with greater options both defensively and in attack, catering to different opposition and match situations. It also reflects Maresca’s intent to create a squad capable of competing at the highest levels of domestic and European football, adapting seamlessly to varying tactical demands throughout the season.

Chelsea’s pre-season preparations are set to kick off soon, with a focus on integrating Maresca’s tactical philosophies and assessing player suitability for the upcoming campaign. The early stages of pre-season will involve players who are not participating in Euro 2024, allowing Maresca to begin implementing his strategies and evaluating the squad’s readiness. The rest of the team is expected to regroup later this month before heading to the United States for pre-season friendlies, providing valuable opportunities to fine-tune tactics and build team cohesion.

Maresca’s appointment as Chelsea’s manager marks a significant transition for the club as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season. The ‘Swiss Army Knife’ masterplan underscores Maresca’s proactive approach to squad management and tactical innovation, aiming to optimize Chelsea’s performance on the field. As the new era under Maresca begins, Chelsea supporters will be eager to see how his strategies unfold and the impact they will have on the team’s fortunes in domestic and European competitions.

The post Chelsea rumors: First major exit prepared under Enzo Maresca appeared first on ClutchPoints.