One of the breakout stars of last season was centre-back Trevoh Chalobah. After successful spells at Ipswich, Huddersfield and Lorient, Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel opted to give Chalobah a chance to impress during pre-season ahead of the 2021/22 campaign.
Eventually, Chalobah was handed his full debut in the UEFA Super Cup showdown against Spanish side Villarreal.
It’s fair to say that Chalobah showed the Chelsea faithful that he was ready to be given a chance to compete for a regular spot in the side.
Advert
Just three days after the Super Cup win, the 22-year-old started his first Premier League game for the Blues against Crystal Palace on the opening day of the season. Not only did the versatile defender perform magnificently, but he also capped off the performance by netting the third in a 3-0 victory with a stunning strike from distance.
Throughout the rest of the campaign, Chalobah would go on to impress every time he stepped foot on the pitch.
In total, Chalobah made 30 appearances in all competitions for the senior side. Coincidentally, the side didn’t lose a game in 90 minutes last season in which he started.
Advert
His versatility allowed the side to compete on all fronts. At 6’3, Chalobah may not be the most imposing of defenders in terms of his build. However, his football IQ and ability to spot danger are second to none. On top of that, his ability to recover quickly using his pace has helped get the side out of trouble many times.
With that being said, after a successful first season with Chelsea, now is the perfect chance for Chalobah to attempt to nail down a regular spot in the side next season.
Antonio Rudiger recently departed the club in favour of a move to Real Madrid. Denmark international Andreas Christensen was also confirmed earlier this week to be leaving the club at the end of his contract.
Advert
Even though it’s likely that Tuchel will look to bring in some reinforcements at the back - with Jules Kounde one of several defenders heavily linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge this summer - that still shouldn’t phase Chalobah whatsoever.
With Cesar Azpilicueta and Thiago Silva ageing, it’s unlikely that the pair will be able to play up to three times a week.Therefore, it’s crucial that Chalobah performs when called upon once again.. Another impressive pre-season could kick start another successful campaign for the young English defender as the side look to challenge on all fronts next season under the new ownership.
Topics: Trevoh Chalobah, Chelsea, Thomas Tuchel, Football, Premier League
James Evans