Premier League Hits and Misses: Christopher Nkunku’s Sole Ability Cannot Solve Chelsea’s Billion Pound Query

Chelsea step into Christmas having lost four consecutive away Premier League games for the first time since December 2000 under Claudio Ranieri. Mauricio Pochettino reflects on the disappointment, citing the team’s lack of clinical finishing as the main issue. Chelsea has missed the most big chances in the league this season and have a negative differential between their expected goals and actual goals scored. Despite creating enough chances in their recent match against Wolves, Chelsea failed to maintain their lead and ultimately lost. Pochettino’s tactics were criticized, and Raheem Sterling and Cole Palmer received bookings that will result in a one-match ban. Chelsea’s spending in the transfer windows has exceeded £1bn, but their shooting problems persist.

Wolves’ victory over Chelsea saw Mario Lemina praised for his standout performance, but he credits his coach Gary O’Neil for the team’s success. O’Neil made tactical adjustments during the game, including a change in formation. Wolves were able to control the game and secure the win by adapting to Chelsea’s style. The team’s ability to be adaptable offers hope for improvement in the future.

Manchester United’s struggles in scoring goals continue, with over 380 minutes passing without a goal. Erik ten Hag’s side lacks attacking quality, with their top scorers from last season experiencing a drop in form. The team currently lacks excitement and functionality in their play. The lack of goals and wins is a cause for concern among United fans.

West Ham faced disappointment in their Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool, but they quickly bounced back with a victory over Manchester United. David Moyes’s side is performing well in the Europa League and has risen to sixth place in the league. With players like Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus at his disposal, Moyes’s team is on an exciting trajectory.

Oleksandr Zinchenko’s defensive weaknesses were exposed in Arsenal’s game against Liverpool. Gary Neville branded him a “liability” and criticized his performance. Arsenal attempted to improve their left-back position in the summer transfer window but were unsuccessful. The team now faces the decision of whether to prioritize this position in the upcoming transfer window.

William Saliba’s performances for Arsenal have been impressive, and it is speculated that his presence could have made a difference in their title race last season had he not been injured. Saliba’s defensive abilities were on display in their game against Liverpool. Virgil van Dijk also showcased his dominance in the game.

Luton Town delivered a strong performance in their game following the distressing incident involving their captain Tom Lockyer. The team showed unity and determination, proving that they belong in the competitive Premier League.

Everton demonstrated their ability to compete in the Premier League with a strong performance against a tough opponent. Andre Gomes made a powerful return to the team after a long injury layoff. Despite their efforts, the team’s winning streak was broken, but Gomes’s performance provides hope for the future.

Brighton’s squad rotation has had consequences, with the team struggling to keep clean sheets and experiencing a dip in form. However, manager Roberto De Zerbi justifies his decisions by pointing to the team’s success in the Europa League. The hope is that the squad will be fresh and able to finish the season strongly.

Aston Villa’s game against Sheffield United ended in a draw, with Villa dominating possession but struggling to break down the opposition. Sheffield United’s defensive tactics were effective in stifling Villa’s attack. Villa’s absence of key players and the challenges posed by different opponents in the league highlight the varied tests teams face in the Premier League.