How Chelsea are set to line up as Pedro Neto close in on Blockbuster transfer

Chelsea Football Club is no stranger to high-profile signings (How Chelsea are set ), and the impending arrival of Pedro Neto from Wolverhampton Wanderers is set to be one of the most exciting transfers of the summer. Neto, a dynamic winger known for his speed, creativity, and ability to change games, has attracted interest from top clubs across Europe. However, Chelsea appears to have won the race for his signature, and his addition to the squad could have a significant impact on how the Blues line up under Mauricio Pochettino.

In this article, we’ll explore how Chelsea could shape up with Neto in the squad, considering their tactical options, potential formations, and the roles that key players might play.

Pedro Neto: A Game-Changing Signing

Pedro Neto’s rise to prominence in the Premier League has been meteoric. Since joining Wolves from Lazio in 2019, the Portuguese international has established himself as one of the most exciting young wingers in English football. His pace, dribbling ability, and vision make him a constant threat in the final third, and his work rate off the ball is equally impressive.
Neto’s ability to play on either wing gives Chelsea flexibility in attack, and his arrival would provide Pochettino with more options in the wide areas. With Chelsea looking to rebuild and compete at the highest level, Neto’s signing could be the catalyst for a new era of success at Stamford Bridge.

Tactical Flexibility Under Pochettino

Mauricio Pochettino is known for his tactical versatility and ability to adapt his team’s shape based on the strengths of his players. With Neto in the squad, Pochettino will have even more options at his disposal, allowing him to tweak his formations and approach depending on the opposition.

One of the formations that Pochettino could deploy is the 4-2-3-1, a system that he has used effectively in the past. In this setup, Neto could play as one of the wide attackers in the three behind the striker, likely on the left wing. His ability to cut inside onto his stronger right foot would add a different dimension to Chelsea’s attack, providing a direct goal threat and the ability to create chances for his teammates.
Alternatively, Pochettino could opt for a 3-4-3 formation, which has been a hallmark of Chelsea’s success in recent years. In this system, Neto could play as one of the two wingers flanking the central striker, providing width and stretching the opposition’s defense. His work rate and defensive awareness would also be crucial in helping the wing-backs maintain balance in the team.

Potential Line-Up with Neto

Given the tactical flexibility that Neto brings, Chelsea’s starting XI could vary depending on the opponent and the situation. However, a possible line-up in a 4-2-3-1 formation might look something like this:

• Goalkeeper: Robert Sánchez
• Right-Back: Reece James
• Center-Backs: Wesley Fofana, Thiago Silva
• Left-Back: Ben Chilwell
• Central Midfielders: Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo
• Right Wing: Raheem Sterling
• Attacking Midfielder: Christopher Nkunku
• Left Wing: Pedro Neto
• Striker: Nicolas Jackson

In this formation, Neto’s role on the left wing would be pivotal. His ability to take on defenders, deliver crosses, and link up with the likes of Chilwell and Nkunku would make Chelsea’s left flank a major attacking outlet. Sterling’s pace on the right, combined with Nkunku’s creativity through the middle, would give the Blues a well-rounded and potent attacking trio behind Jackson.

In a 3-4-3 setup, the line-up could look like this:

• Goalkeeper: Robert Sánchez
• Center-Backs: Wesley Fofana, Thiago Silva, Levi Colwill
• Right Wing-Back: Reece James
• Left Wing-Back: Ben Chilwell
• Central Midfielders: Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo
• Right Wing: Raheem Sterling
• Left Wing: Pedro Neto
• Striker: Nicolas Jackson

In this system, Neto and Sterling would operate as wide forwards, with the freedom to cut inside and interchange positions with Jackson. The wing-backs, James and Chilwell, would provide width and support in both attack and defense, making Chelsea’s flanks extremely dangerous.

The Impact on Current Players

Neto’s arrival would undoubtedly increase competition for places in Chelsea’s attack. Players like Mykhailo Mudryk, Noni Madueke, and Carney Chukwuemeka would find their roles under scrutiny, as Pochettino looks to balance the squad and maintain harmony.

Mudryk, who joined Chelsea in January 2023, has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency. Neto’s presence could push Mudryk to raise his game, knowing that his place in the starting XI is far from guaranteed. Similarly, Madueke, who operates primarily on the right wing, would need to impress Pochettino to secure regular playing time.

For Nkunku, who is expected to be a key player in Chelsea’s attack, Neto’s arrival could be beneficial. With Neto providing width and stretching the defense, Nkunku would have more space to operate in the central areas, where he can use his creativity and goal-scoring ability to full effect.

In the case of Jackson, who is likely to lead the line, having a player like Neto on the wing would provide him with better service and more opportunities to find the back of the net. Jackson’s physical presence and ability to hold up the ball would complement Neto’s skill set, making them a potentially formidable partnership.

Challenges and Expectations

While Neto’s signing would be a major coup for Chelsea, it also comes with its challenges. The Premier League is one of the most competitive leagues in the world, and Neto will need to adapt quickly to the demands of playing for a club with Chelsea’s ambitions. The pressure to perform will be immense, especially given the club’s recent struggles and the high expectations from the fans.

Moreover, Pochettino will need to manage the squad carefully to ensure that all players are given opportunities to contribute. With a packed fixture schedule that includes domestic and European competitions, squad rotation will be crucial. Pochettino’s ability to keep his players motivated and maintain a harmonious dressing room will be key to Chelsea’s success.