This season has certainly had its share of standout moments, but it has also been riddled with periods of deep frustration for Chelsea fans.
The latest example unfolded in their recent clash, where the team started brightly, dominating the first 20 minutes with confidence and purpose.
At that point, they appeared to be in full control and poised to take the lead.
However, in what’s become an all-too-familiar scenario, a momentary lapse in focus and poor defensive coordination saw them gift the opposition a soft goal—turning what should have been a straightforward match into a challenging, and potentially disastrous, affair.
The turning point came when Marc Cucurella, who was deployed in an unorthodox hybrid role drifting between defense and midfield, lost possession in a dangerous area.
That error exposed Chelsea’s left side, allowing Ipswich to quickly advance.
By the time Cucurella managed to track back and attempt to intercept the cross, the damage had already been done—Ipswich had flooded the box.
Although the initial ball got past Cucurella, the defensive situation that followed should have been manageable.
Unfortunately for Chelsea, goalkeeper Robert Sanchez failed to react decisively, staying rooted to his line.
In the midst of the confusion, Ipswich’s Julio Enciso found space between center-backs Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo.
With neither defender picking him up, Enciso had the simplest of tasks, calmly slotting the ball into the net unchallenged.
This episode once again highlights Chelsea’s persistent defensive frailties, largely stemming from their constantly rotating backline.
The idea of using Cucurella in an inverted role might have some tactical justification, especially in terms of controlling possession and transitioning play, but it also introduces significant risks.
It leaves key defensive areas exposed, and even a side like Ipswich can take advantage of such gaps.
The bigger concern, however, is the lack of stability in Chelsea’s defensive unit.
Under Enzo Maresca’s leadership, the continuous chopping and changing of central defenders has disrupted any chance of building a solid, cohesive foundation.
Defensive chemistry is essential for a team hoping to compete at the top level, and Chelsea’s inability to establish that has been costly throughout the season.
If the team hopes to avoid further setbacks and get back to winning ways, urgent improvements need to be made—starting with finding a consistent and dependable defensive setup.
