Following a dismal 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Brighton, critics have lambasted Chelsea’s attacking approach—particularly targeting Christopher Nkunku—while highlighting the damage caused by injuries and strategic missteps.
In a harsh critique of Chelsea’s performance against Brighton, Ben Fleming reports that the FA Cup fourth-round exit has left the club’s attacking setup in tatters. Despite an early lead gifted by an own goal from Bart Verbruggen, Chelsea’s hopes were dashed as Brighton’s Georginio Rutter and Kaoru Mitoma secured a comeback win. The match, marked by only two shots on target in 90 minutes, exposed the void left by injured forwards Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu. Manager Enzo Maresca, who attempted to utilise Christopher Nkunku in a makeshift striker role, admitted that the absence of Jackson was keenly felt—citing his intensity both on and off the ball—while critics like former player Craig Burley dismissed Nkunku as “a total waste of money.”
Fleming’s article underscores the broader issues at Stamford Bridge, suggesting that the lack of cutting edge in attack is a direct consequence of recent transfer decisions and injury woes. With key players sidelined and a reliance on substitutes who are failing to make a tangible impact, Chelsea’s tactical setup appears increasingly inadequate. The situation is compounded by the fact that on deadline day, two natural strikers were lost to injury, leaving Maresca scrambling for alternatives and raising concerns over the club’s long-term strategy.
