Chelsea Player Ratings vs Wolves: Defensive Collapse Raises Questions About Mauricio Pochettino’s Tenure

The Blues, following a 4-1 loss to Liverpool, initially led through Cole Palmer. However, Cunha equalized with a deflected shot off Thiago Silva, and an own goal by Axel Disasi added to Chelsea’s woes. Cunha further extended Wolves’ lead, sealing a 3-1 advantage, and converted a late penalty. Chelsea’s goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic faced challenges, while defensive struggles were evident, with key players receiving mixed ratings. Pochettino’s strategic decisions faced scrutiny, contributing to increased job pressure.

 

Djordje Petrovic (6/10): Exhibited smart stops early on, but the two deflected goals by Wolves in the first half left him helpless. Hindered by a lackluster defense in front of him, leading to a third and fourth goal.

Malo Gusto (3/10): Struggled as the right-back in the first half, displaying defensive vulnerabilities, inefficiency in attack, repeated ball giveaways, and receiving a booking. Later conceded a penalty, contributing to Wolves’ success.

 

Axel Disasi (5/10): Made crucial clearances at the back initially but was unfortunate with Ait-Nouri’s deflected effort resulting in an own goal. Appeared more uncertain as the game progressed.

Thiago Silva (6/10): The left side of defense seemed more stable, but he lost track of Neto for Wolves’ third goal. Scored late in the game but faced challenges with the overall defensive performance.

Ben Chilwell (5/10): Stayed busy dealing with the pacey Neto and Semedo, struggling especially against Neto. Showed promise going forward, contributing to the attack.

Moises Caicedo (4/10): Provided an assist with a well-threaded pass but was at fault for Wolves’ equalizer, giving away the ball in midfield. Looked uncomfortable in possession, committing clumsy fouls and earning a yellow card before being substituted.

 

Enzo Fernandez (5/10): Found it challenging to assert himself as Wolves’ midfield dominated the Blues in the center. Seemed to be regressing in performance.

Conor Gallagher (6/10): Emerged as the midfielder most likely to create opportunities with dynamic runs and a diverse passing range. Fought hard but had a quieter game than usual.

Cole Palmer (7/10): Scored confidently with his weaker right foot and emerged as one of Chelsea’s significant attacking threats. Requires more creativity from teammates.

Christopher Nkunku (5/10): Missed a notable chance early in the first half and appeared slightly off the pace throughout the match, potentially not fully fit.

 

Raheem Sterling (5/10): Contained well by Wolves in the first half despite displaying good movement. Improved in the second half but missed a significant chance.

Nicolas Jackson (5/10): Faced a crucial opportunity from a Gusto cross but headed wide from six yards, a disappointing miss. Needs to contribute more upfront.

Mykhailo Mudryk (5/10): Provided minimal impact after coming on as a substitute.

Carney Chukwuemeka (5/10): Appeared relatively anonymous when introduced in the second half.

Alfie Gilchrist (N/A): Had insufficient time to make a notable impact.

Benoit Badiashile (N/A): Had limited influence during his short cameo.

Mauricio Pochettino (5/10): Tactical decisions faced scrutiny, and uncertainty persisted regarding the team’s strategic approach, increasing pressure on the manager.