Premier League 2019/20: Chelsea vs Arsenal – tactical analysis

On March 2014, both Frank Lampard and Mikel Arteta were on the teamsheets when Chelsea thrashed Arsenal six goals to nothing in Arsène Wenger’s 1000th game for Arsenal. This midweek in the Premier League, both men met once again in the dramatic London derby at the Stamford Bridge  now as managers for their respective clubs.

It was not only Lampard and Arteta but David Luiz as well who had made a return to his old ground after moving to Arsenal earlier this season. However, the homecoming only lasted for 26 minutes after the Brazilian went off for a red card  his first in this season’s Premier League. Playing against 10 men for more than an hour, Chelsea were unable to capitalise on the advantage. The main reason was their lack of creativity in their tactics, as well as a costly slip-up later in the game. This tactical analysis will inform you how the match unfolded.

Lineups

Lampard chose 4–1–2–3/4–3–3 for Chelsea in this game. The duo of Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rüdiger was picked as the centre-back pairing with Jorginho playing as a single pivot in front of them. Tammy Abraham spearheaded the attack with Callum Hudson-Odoi and Willian in the flanks. The dugout was filled with names like Ross Barkley, Mason Mount, and Michy Batshuayi.

In the opposite side, Arteta opted his usual 4–2–3–1 for Arsenal. Héctor Bellerín made his return to the starting lineup and started with Bukayo Saka as the Gunners’ full-back duo. Mesut Özil started at his favourite position with new recruit Nicolas Pépé, and youngster Gabriel Martinelli supporting him in wide areas. Mattéo Guendouzi, Rob Holding, and Joe Willock had to start the match from the bench.

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