Despite the need for Chelsea to acquire defensive reinforcements this summer, it is actually new recruits at the other end of the field which could have a more transformative effect.
Chelsea's first major signing under Todd Boehly could be forward Raheem Sterling from Manchester City, and although Barcelona have confidence in signing Raphinha, the Blues did agree a fee with Leeds for the Brazillian.
It appears that Thomas Tuchel is pursuing more natural wide players in the transfer market this summer which could lead the German to alter Chelsea's formation in the 2022/23 season. As detailed by The Athletic in a piece focusing in on Raphinha's skillset, narrowed in on this theory.
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Stating that "It’s possible that by pursuing Raphinha and Sterling, Tuchel is recruiting in preparation for a change of tactical system.
"A 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 would certainly be more naturally suited to any new wingers arriving in the squad, as well as the ones like Callum Hudson-Odoi and Christian Pulisic already at Stamford Bridge."
Tuchel has mostly used a 3-4-2-1 since he took charge in January of 2021 but did show signs of altering to a four-man defence during last season. Switching to a 4-3-3 in possession, whilst maintaining a 3-5-2 out of it. This had varying levels of success, seeing good performances against Spurs but a terrible defeat at home to Brentford.
Taking out one defender would certainly give more reason for some of Chelsea's current frustrated attackers to stick around, whilst also offering fresh hope the likes of Conor Gallagher that a more suitable role will be available to him in central midfield.
There is pressure on Tuchel to vastly improve Chelsea's attack next season after consistent underperformance since he joined. An over £100m outlay from Boehly on Sterling and Raphinha would certainly give him an easy excuse to make a long-lasting change.
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