Liam Twomey’s analysis argues that Chelsea’s shift to a more controlled, possession-based style under Enzo Maresca is coinciding with a significant drop in their attacking efficiency.
In his detailed analysis, Liam Twomey contends that Chelsea’s transformation under Enzo Maresca—from a dynamic counter-attacking side to one overly focused on retaining possession—may be undermining their offensive output. While the team’s average possession has increased from 56.7% to 60.8% since December 15, the quality of their chances has diminished sharply, as reflected in a drop in expected goals on target (xGOT) from 2.22 to 1.67. Twomey suggests that this shift has led to a more cautious and error-prone approach, with the team now making costly mistakes in crucial moments. Although the defensive record has improved marginally, the lack of clinical finishing and the reduction in fast break effectiveness are fueling growing concerns among fans and pundits alike. Ultimately, the analysis questions whether Maresca’s insistence on a slower, more patient style is detrimental to Chelsea’s ambition, particularly when the margin for error has narrowed significantly.