Trying to solve the long-standing dilemma of attacking underperformance at Stamford Bridge looks set to carry on into 2023 under Graham Potter.
A brief upturn in form from Chelsea's forwards after the arrival of the 47-year-old in September prompted hopes the years of disappointment might be coming to an end. But that quickly deteriorated as autumn turned to winter and the Blues limped towards the World Cup break.
With the eyes of the footballing world firmly planted on Qatar, Chelsea fans have been intrigued as to how their players will perform after a disappointing start to the season in the Premier League.
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Two maligned names who have already used the World Cup to restore some much-needed confidence are Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic.
Ziyech has started both of Morocco's games in Group F so far, setting up the second goal for Zakaria Aboukhlal on Sunday in a historic win over Belgium. Pulisic has also been an integral member of his nation's plans, impressing in the draw against England on Friday and setting up Timothy Weah's goal in the clash with Wales.
Playing in their favoured roles on either flank, the pair have looked energised and inspired on the international stage, each winning the Player of the Match awards for their performances, a stark comparison to the constant criticism and struggles faced in west London.
Both are also the centre of speculation over potential exits in January given their struggles to find consistent form in England, with Ziyech again linked with a move to Serie A giants AC Milan.
It is fair to criticise either, along with many Chelsea players this season, for their underwhelming output and the reality that neither Ziyech nor Pulisic have managed to do much better than other criticised peers. It poses the question of Chelsea's culture and why players appeared more effective outside the club bubble, or improve once they leave.
Ziyech is probably best served with a mid-season exit given his general performances at Chelsea not being overly impressive and his lack of chances since Potter arrived, Pulisic's future remains uncertain given his age and fears a big career still lies ahead for him.
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