Chelsea won their penultimate pre-season game against Udinese with a 3-1 win in Italy on Friday night.
Thomas Tuchel’s side started strong in the first half. Eventually, their efforts were rewarded with a goal. N’Golo Kante’s super strike gave the Blues the lead.
With eight minutes to go in the half, Raheem Sterling opened his Chelsea account. However, on the stroke of half time, Gerard Deulofeu pulled a goal back for Udinese.
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In the second half, it was clear that some of the players were suffering from tiredness towards the end, but on the stroke of full-time, Callum Hudson-Odoi’s wicked cross found Mason Mount for Chelsea’s third.
Here are five things Absolute Chelsea learned from the pre-season fixture.
1) Raheem Sterling is looking sharp
After signing from Manchester City, Raheem Sterling walks in as one of Chelsea’s best players. His experience is second to none and his addition will only pay dividends going forward. In the showdown with Udinese, Sterling was sharp from the off. His runs from both flanks caused real havoc for the Udinese defence. His efforts were rewarded with his first goal in Chelsea colours. With Everton around the corner, Sterling will be hoping to hit the ground running as soon as possible.
2) Kalidou Koulibaly’s quality is already starting to show
Since losing Antonio Rudiger on a free to Real Madrid, the Chelsea faithful were praying that the club could find a suitable replacement. Thankfully, the club were able to bring in Kalidou Koulibaly from Napoli. The Senegal international started his first game against Udinese. Right from the off, his presence was well-known. Kalidou showed his quality when called upon. Despite the game being his first start, he hardly looked rusty. Every time he was called into action, it is fair to say that Kalidou delivered. With the season fast approaching, the Blues will be convinced with what they have seen so far with Kalidou.
3) Raheem Sterling, Kai Havertz and Mason Mount should be the front three against Everton
In the pre-season against Udinese, Thomas Tuchel opted to play a strong squad. It is evident that the manager has one eye on Everton next weekend. Raheem Sterling, Kai Havertz and Mason Mount all started up top against the Italian side. Right from the first whistle, the trio made themselves known. The link up in the first half was refreshing to see. It is clear that Sterling has immediately clicked well with his fellow forwards. Kai Havertz’s ability to be a focal point certainly benefited both Mount and Sterling throughout the entirety of the game. Even though there was a bit of sloppiness from a few of the forwards, it is only natural due to it being a pre-season game.
4) Jorginho and N’Golo Kante proving their quality ahead of the new season
Unfortunately for the Chelsea fans, N’Golo Kante was unable to attend Chelsea’s pre-season tour of America. The club certainly could have done with him throughout the tour. However, the fans were finally able to see the Frenchman in action. Kante started alongside Jorginho in midfield. What was evident throughout the game, the pair were playing higher up the pitch without fear. It was definitely refreshing to see.
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Throughout the game, Jorginho’s performance was sharp. The Italian definitely stepped it up a level at both ends of the pitch. As for Kante, it is vital that he stays fit this season. If he can stay fit and in form, it will only pay dividends going forward.
5) Chelsea’s high press was efficient
Unquestionably, pre season is all about getting back into match fitness. The showdown with Udinese showed that the side are very close to full fitness. There will be a few players who think they can play a league game tomorrow. Usually, players are very conserved with their energy. However, throughout the entire game against the Italian side, every single Chelsea player were quick to show their intent. The Blues dominated the majority of the play throughout the whole game.
However, when Udinese were on the ball, Tuchel’s side were quick to press and not allow the opposition just a hint of space. It was certainly great to see the side pressing tremendously for 90 minutes.
James Evans