Theres nationwide excitement when the international break eventually finishes and the Premier League campaign resumes. The headline of the returning matches came from the Etihad, where Manchester City who were desperate to maintain pressure on the league leaders Liverpool faced a dangerous Chelsea side, who under Frank Lampard have found their scoring touch. The game under the lights didnt disappoint as the Champions came from behind to take a vital three points.
In this tactical analysis, we look at how Chelseas tactics nearly scuppered Man City using their dynamic midfield. We also provide an analysis of how Man City tactically overcame their opponents to snatch the three points.
Lineups
Pep Guardiola continued with Fernandinho as a centre-back, being partnered by John Stones. The pair looked to hold a high line to squeeze the Chelsea shape and recover possession more aggressively. Whilst this allowed Man City to see more of the ball for periods, it left them vulnerable in defensive transition which we look at later.
The attacking three consisted of Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez on the wings. In sustained possession, the pair maintained their wide positioning to open gaps in the half-spaces for the advancing midfielders. As attacks developed, however, their roles differed slightly. Sterling made sharp bursts inside in an attempt to penetrate behind the Chelsea backline. Mahrez, on the other hand, received the ball to feet and used his dribbling ability to attack outside-to-in at Emerson. This asymmetrical approach made City unpredictable in their build-up play which led to them achieving an xG of 1.25.
The visitors matched their
![Napoli Vs Chelsea [2–3] – Champions League 2025/2026: How Game Management Cost Antonio Conte – Tactical Analysis](https://totalfootballanalysis.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Napoli-Vs-Chelsea-20252026-350x250.png "Napoli Vs Chelsea [2–3] – Champions League 2025/2026: How Game Management Cost Antonio Conte – Tactical Analysis 3")
