Chelsea’s Attack Issues and Possible Move for Dani Olmo
Chelsea has been one of the Premier League’s more dynamic attacking teams this season, netting 38 goals in their first 19 matches and currently sitting in fourth place with 35 points. However, recent difficulties have arisen, especially when facing teams that set up defensively with a low block. These challenges have led to disappointing results, such as a 0-0 draw against Everton, a 2-1 loss to Fulham, and a 2-0 defeat to Ipswich.
Tactical Concerns and Squad Depth
Manager Enzo Maresca has been using fewer substitutes in these matches, raising questions about his confidence in Chelsea’s bench strength. This lack of rotation may drive the club to pursue a game-changing substitute during the upcoming January transfer window.
Chelsea Target Barcelona’s Dani Olmo
Reports from Spain suggest that Chelsea is among the clubs interested in signing Dani Olmo, Barcelona’s attacking midfielder. The 26-year-old, who is also being courted by Tottenham, Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Arsenal, could be a key addition. According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea and Tottenham have both expressed interest in Olmo, while La Liga recently rejected Barcelona’s bid to include him in their squad, which could make a transfer more realistic and heighten competition for his signature.
Olmo’s Season So Far
This season, Olmo has played 15 matches across all competitions, scoring six goals, providing one assist, and accumulating 813 minutes on the field.
João Félix vs. Dani Olmo: A Comparison
One player Chelsea signed this summer for a similar role is João Félix, who joined from Atlético Madrid for approximately £45 million. Like Olmo, Félix spent time at Barcelona, scoring ten goals and registering six assists in 44 appearances.
Both players are creative attackers who excel behind the striker, frequently finding space to receive the ball. They have also been used as wide players, cutting inside when full-backs push forward, acting as secondary playmakers.
This season, Félix has slightly outperformed Olmo in several areas, which could be attributed to his involvement in the UEFA Conference League, often regarded as featuring weaker competition. Nevertheless, Olmo has demonstrated his ability to contribute, scoring more goals than Félix and matching his assists per 90 minutes (0.19). Both players are strong in key creative aspects, averaging over six progressive passes per 90 minutes, more than 1.5 key passes per 90, and over two successful take-ons per 90 minutes.
A Possible Solution to Chelsea’s Issues
Olmo could provide Maresca with another creative option off the bench, as noted by journalist Josh Bunting for his performances in EURO 2024. A player like Olmo could offer Chelsea the spark needed to break down well-organized low-block defenses, an area where the team has consistently struggled.
