Even allowing for the relatively weak opposition and the fact that very little should generally be read into pre-season results, there were some definite positives to emerge from Chelsea’s first game under new boss Maurizio Sarri.
The Blues were comfortable winners against Perth Glory – much more so than the 1-0 scoreline suggests. And although they switched off a couple of times late in the game, they can return to London feeling that the signs are encouraging.
The recent signing from Napoli, making his Chelsea debut, impressed from the word go. Always wanting the ball, the Italy midfielder is a class act in possession and his 45 minutes on the pitch were more than impressive. It’s obvious why other clubs, including Manchester City, wanted him, and why Sarri was so keen to sign him.
After an injury-hampered first season at Chelsea, Barkley will be looking to make an impact this term – and he looked sharp in the Blues’ first pre-season outing.
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The young forward, who also played in the first half, stood out too, causing the hosts all sorts of problems on the left. He’s so exciting to watch and clearly has a bright future ahead of him. He already looks worthy of at least a place in Chelsea’s squad based on his appearances last season.
The new head coach said after his recent appointment that it will take time to implement his style of play. That may well be the case, but – again, while taking the obvious limitations of the opposition into account – the team have clearly taken on board his methods already. From the opening whistle the brand of slick, incisive football Sarri was known for at Napoli was on display.
This post was last modified on 24/07/2018