The Athletic FC Podcast: Are Chelsea Lacking Leaders? Release Date: October 29, 2024
Host: Ayo Akimwaleri
Guests: Liam Toomey (Chelsea Writer), Phil Hay (Lead Writer for Athletic FC's Newsletter)

1. Introduction

In the episode titled "Are Chelsea Lacking Leaders?", hosted by Ayo Akimwaleri, the discussion centers around Chelsea Football Club's current standing in the Premier League, managerial strategies under Enzo Maresca, and the leadership dynamics within the squad. Joined by Chelsea writer Liam Toomey and Phil Hay, the hosts delve deep into whether Chelsea's promising position is hindered by a lack of effective leadership.

2. Chelsea's Current Performance

Ayo Akimwaleri opens the discussion by noting Chelsea's impressive position in the Premier League:

"Chelsea sitting fifth after beating Newcastle on the weekend, just one point behind Aston Villa and Arsenal. Are they surprising people right now?"
[03:58]

Liam Toomey responds, emphasizing that while the team's talent is undeniable, the consistent performance reflects a natural progression rather than a surprise:

"I don't know if surprised is the word, because we know there's talent in this squad..."
[04:15]

Chelsea's recent victory against Newcastle has positioned them closely behind top contenders, indicating a competitive edge that has been building over the season.

3. Manager Enzo Maresca's Impact

Phil Hay reflects on Maresca's managerial approach compared to his predecessor, Mauricio Pochettino:

"I would call it an evolution from what we saw under Pochettino. A little bit more control, but still quite transitional in the way that they attack thrillingly."
[04:50]

Maresca has been credited with fostering an environment of tactical flexibility, allowing the team to adapt and evolve their playing style. This adaptability has been crucial in maintaining Chelsea's momentum in the league.

4. Leadership Within Chelsea: Reece James and Others

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Reece James and his role as a leader:

Ayo Akimwaleri poses the question:

"Is a proper leader what Chelsea are missing?"
[05:00]

Phil Hay elaborates on James' current form and leadership qualities:

"He has put his finger on who the best players in this squad are. I think he's managed to establish some really strong combinations..."
[06:27]

However, despite James' capabilities, Phil Hay expresses skepticism about Maresca's confidence in him as a sole leader:

"You have to build them. It's not necessarily inherent in every person's character to be a leader of men at 23, 24..."
[25:31]

Liam Toomey adds that James' captaincy is still in its early stages and that it's premature to pass judgment on his leadership:

"Reece James, I think his captaincy is in its infancy as well. We're only a year or so into it..."
[23:12]

The conversation highlights the collective leadership emerging from various players like Levi Colwill, Moises Caicedo, Forenzo Fernandez, Cole Palmer, and Nicholas Jackson, suggesting a distributed leadership model rather than relying on a single captain.

5. Key Players: Cole Palmer and Others

Cole Palmer emerges as a pivotal figure in Chelsea's attacking prowess. Phil Hay praises Palmer's influence:

"He is the engine of that elite attack. He makes so many good decisions that he creates a platform not just for himself, but to get lots of goals and assists."
[17:03]

Liam Toomey draws comparisons between Palmer and legendary players, highlighting his potential:

"He reminds me a lot of Rooney in that every time you watch him, he impresses you..."
[17:20]

Palmer's ability to orchestrate attacks and elevate his teammates' performances is seen as a cornerstone for Chelsea's success this season.

6. Future Prospects and Trophies

The panel discusses Chelsea's aspirations beyond the league:

Phil Hay touches on the significance of securing a Champions League spot:

"For them to be sitting fifth and looking relatively on track to be the fourth best team in the Premier League this season I think is an encouraging sign."
[09:11]

Liam Toomey emphasizes that while top-four finishes are crucial, the ultimate goal remains winning major trophies:

"Ultimately their aim is to take Chelsea to the top. That is the bar that they're trying to clear..."
[39:16]

The potential run in the Carabao Cup is also mentioned, with Maresca navigating squad rotations and strategic selections being pivotal for success.

7. Maresca's Leadership Style

Ayo Akimwaleri and the guests analyze Maresca's public handling of leadership challenges within the team, particularly focusing on his interaction with Reece James:

"Maresca has been absolutely steadfast in his support of Sanchez to the point where I would be surprised to see him dropped anytime soon."
[10:44]

Phil Hay commends Maresca's authoritative yet supportive approach:

"He's been very good consistently at projecting a confidence and an authority publicly..."
[35:15]

Maresca's willingness to publicly challenge players demonstrates his commitment to building a disciplined and cohesive unit, balancing authority with support.

8. Conclusion

The episode concludes with an optimistic outlook on Chelsea's trajectory under Maresca. The emergence of leaders within a young squad, the tactical evolution, and the influential presence of key players like Cole Palmer are seen as positive indicators for the club's future ambitions.

Ayo Akimwaleri wraps up by acknowledging the progress made and the potential for Chelsea to reclaim their status among Europe's elite.

Notable Quotes Summary

• Ayo Akimwaleri [03:58]: "Chelsea sitting fifth after beating Newcastle on the weekend, just one point behind Aston Villa and Arsenal. Are they surprising people right now?"

• Phil Hay [06:27]: "He has put his finger on who the best players in this squad are. I think he's managed to establish some really strong combinations..."

• Phil Hay [17:03]: "He is the engine of that elite attack. He makes so many good decisions that he creates a platform not just for himself, but to get lots of goals and assists."

• Liam Toomey [23:12]: "Reece James, I think his captaincy is in its infancy as well. We're only a year or so into it..."

• Phil Hay [35:15]: "He's been very good consistently at projecting a confidence and an authority publicly..."

This comprehensive discussion provides listeners with an in-depth analysis of Chelsea's current challenges and strengths, shedding light on the leadership dynamics that could define the club's success in the ongoing Premier League season.