Five reasons why Chelsea failed to build on Club World Cup success on anniversary

So how do you go from beating the best team in the world to finishing almost in the bottom half of your domestic league?

On the anniversary of Chelsea’s victory over PSG in the Club World Cup final, The Chelsea Chronicle has listed five reasons why everything came crashing down.

1. Poor transfer window

Chelsea got complacent after their Club World Cup triumph, and you could see that in their transfer dealings.

Key areas such as the goalkeeper and centre-back positions were not strengthened despite Robert Sanchez’s inconsistency and Levi Colwill’s ACL injury.

The signings that Chelsea did make also did not work out. Just one year after bringing him in, Chelsea are already trying to offload Alejandro Garnacho.

Sorry, but there are WORSE players than Alejandro Garnacho at Chelsea who aren’t being pushed out of the club

2. Injuries

On the subject of Colwill’s ACL injury, it undoubtedly had a massive impact on the team. The England international is Chelsea’s best central defender, and not having him for almost the entire campaign hurt the Club World Cup holders.

Cole Palmer’s groin issue at the start of the season did not help either, while other important players also picked up injuries throughout the year.

3. Cole Palmer’s form

Palmer was the reason why Chelsea were able to beat PSG so convincingly in America. That day, the attacking midfielder put in arguably his best ever performance in a blue shirt.

However, perhaps because of his ongoing groin problem, Palmer’s form took a real dip last term. With their star man not performing, it was always going to be a tough campaign for the Blues.

4. Ill-discipline

Chelsea’s players did themselves no favours by getting sent off constantly. In total, Chelsea picked up 10 red cards across all competitions, which is ridiculous.

How are you supposed to win games when you are always down to 10 men? You don’t. Just ask Chelsea!

5. Enzo Maresca drama

Last but not least, Enzo Maresca. His flirting around with Manchester City before resigning completely blew the season up.

Of course, you can also question the appointment of his successor Liam Rosenior. But when reviewing why everything went so wrong for Chelsea, Maresca’s antics cannot be ignored.