How Enzo Maresca’s ‘Magic W’ Tactic and Reece James’ New Role Led Chelsea to Victory Against Tottenham

ENZO MARESCA’s creative formation was instrumental in Chelsea’s consistent triumph over Tottenham.

Last Saturday, the Blues matched their fierce London rivals on points, securing a 1-0 victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Joao Pedro netted the decisive goal in the 34th minute, securing all three points for the visitors.

Despite the win, Blues manager Maresca may have desired a more comfortable margin of victory.

Nevertheless, the Italian is likely to be pleased with the effectiveness of his tactical choices, which marked Chelsea’s fifth consecutive league win against their rivals.

SunSport’s tactical analysts Will Pugh and Dean Scoggins are set to dissect how Chelsea secured yet another win over Spurs.

Maresca’s Tactical Shifts

IT WAS merely seven, eight, or nine seconds into the match when I immediately thought, ‘New formation for Chelsea.’

The team adopted a W shape, or trident in midfield, comprised of two base midfielders, Caicedo and Reece James, with Enzo Fernandez positioned ahead and the two wingers spread wide. Joao Pedro operated in between them.

This formation congested Spurs’ midfield, allowing Caicedo or Reece James to manage the press when needed.

This setup ensured coverage, giving players the freedom to maneuver. In the Premier League, a midfielder unwarily chasing the ball can leave gaps for easy passes.

However, with the W shape, if one side presses, the other can drop back into position. This flexible strategy confuses opponents and presents significant challenges.

Moi Bien

I suspect Bentancur, Palhinha, and Xavi Simons were looking over their shoulders after the match, wondering if Caicedo would catch them off guard again.

Focusing on the goal—a key moment in the match—Chelsea controlled the tempo and could have scored more.

As a coach, the holding midfielder should be granted the freedom to attack.

Enzo Maresca has enabled this freedom through a distinct midfield arrangement.

Caicedo has a knack for sensing danger and responding effectively.

Initially, I was puzzled by Djed Spence’s intrusion into Caicedo’s territory.

Avoiding danger zones is crucial.

Upon regaining possession, we witnessed Spurs’ misplay. Xavi Simons’ simple pass to Mickey van de Ven was mishandled.

Van de Ven had a clear option that was inexplicably mishandled. Nevertheless, kudos to Caicedo for his sharp awareness.

He consistently won the first, second, and third balls, where Kevin Danso, standing six feet three, hesitated to engage.

Ultimately, credit goes to Caicedo and a brilliant finish from Joao Pedro.

Game of Throws

Set pieces are pivotal in modern football, including throw-ins.

We know Kevin Danso has a powerful throw. In youth football, I use this tactic to create space for dominant headers.

As it unfolded, I immediately anticipated it, messaging the group, ‘Look, look, look.’

This strategic maneuver was clever; Chelsea advanced three players, while Spurs bravely matched with only three defenders.

After Sanchez fouled a player, Spurs mounted a counterattack, briefly creating chaos.

This exemplifies innovative coaching—strategically managing defense while unsettling Tottenham, complicating their counterplay. A genuine win-win.

Fernandez Rising High

He’s an tactical genius. Comparable to Bernardo Silva at Manchester City, he’s the linchpin that maintains Chelsea’s shape.

When opponents press forward, he appears right where he’s needed.

His ability to elevate himself to identify dangers is truly remarkable.

From the pitch, spotting opportunities and potential mistakes becomes easier.

He intercepts threats and fills gaps seamlessly. His talent for linking play, especially with Garnacho, is commendable.

In areas where strikers dwell, defenders can struggle to mark multiple threats.

As the ball shifts wide, for instance to Cucurella then Garnacho, the fullback ponders, ‘I can press, but wait, Enzo Fernandez is there too.’ This confuses opponents across the pitch.

While some Chelsea fans might crave more contributions from him on the ball, one memorable moment was his nutmeg in the box during the first half.