The Blue Print: Chelsea FC Tactics Podcast

#32 - Explaining the 4-4-2 Defensive Strategy

In this episode, we break down the 4-4-2 defensive structure, exploring its key benefits and potential drawbacks, and why Xabi Alonso believes it could provide greater de

#31 - Leaky Defence: Chelsea's Off-Ball Problems in Open Play and Set-Pieces

Chelsea’s defensive problems have become increasingly difficult to ignore. In this episode, Fahd and Seun analyse Chelsea’s off-ball issues in open play and from set-piec

#30 - Xabi Alonso's Off-Ball Control Tactics

In this episode, we take a deep dive into Chelsea’s evolving off-ball control strategy, analysing how it was implemented against Fulham and Brighton. We explore how Chels

#29 - Forecasting Alonso’s Tactical Flexibility for 2026/27

In this episode, we explore how Chelsea could use multiple in-possession and out-of-possession shapes next season whilst maintaining a consistent set of tactical principl

#28 - Why Chelsea Signed Palestra and Lacroix

In this episode, we analyse Chelsea’s latest signing Palestra, breaking down his individual profile, tactical fit within Alonso’s system, and the wider impact on the squa

#27 - Chelsea 2025/26 Season Review

In this episode, we reflect on the highs and lows of Chelsea FC's 2025/26 campaign, examining the key factors that shaped a turbulent season. The discussion covers recurr

#26 - FA Cup Heartbreak Again, Alonso Hired

In this episode, we break down Chelsea’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup Final, as the Blues endured yet another painful loss at the final hurdle in th

#25 - Rosenior Sacked, Replacement Options, Poor Form, and Strategy Gaps

In this episode, we discuss the shock sacking of Liam Rosenior before diving into Chelsea FC’s alarming run of six consecutive Premier League defeats and whether their ho

#24 - Discipline, Recent Form, and UCL Round of 16 Preview

Fahd and Seun discuss some of the discipline issues that have appeared in recent games, looking at how they played a role in the draw against Burnley, the defeat to Arsen

#23 - Discussing Chelsea’s Brazilian Trio: João Pedro, Estêvão Willian & Andrey Santos

In this episode, we discuss Chelsea’s Brazilian trio – João Pedro, Estêvão Willian and Andrey Santos – looking at their individual profiles, development progress, and how

#22 - The Rosenior Era: What Changes on the Pitch?

In this episode, we discuss Chelsea’s appointment of Liam Rosenior as head coach following Enzo Maresca’s departure, before analysing Rosenior’s tactical ideas through th

#21 - Maresca Sacked, Who's Next?

This episode dives into Enzo Maresca’s sacking, examining the deeper issues within Chelsea’s overall strategy that led to yet another managerial change. The conversation

#20 - Patchy Form Persists: The Impact of Recruitment Strategy and Maresca’s Tactical Choices

In this episode, Fahd and Seun break down why Chelsea’s patchy form continues to persist. They discuss the club’s recruitment strategy and how constant squad turnover has

#19 - Beyond the Noise: The Maresca–Board Situation

In this episode, Fahd and Seun take a balanced look at the situation between Enzo Maresca and the club’s board, first outlining the context behind his recent press confer

#18 - The Consistency Question

After a mixed run of results — wins over Burnley and an impressive victory against Barcelona, followed by a strong draw with Arsenal, but then a disappointing loss to Lee

#17 - Talking Set-Pieces and Form Before a Heavy Winter Schedule

Despite not having a squad that stands out for physicality, Chelsea have been performing well in offensive set-piece situations. That success, however, hasn’t translated

#16 - Momentum Shift After Liverpool Beaten?

Chelsea’s mood has flipped following wins over Benfica and a stunning late triumph against Liverpool. With confidence returning, could this be the moment Maresca’s side f

#15 - Three Games, No Wins: Early Days or Alarm Bells?

Three games, a 2-2 draw with Brentford, a 3-1 defeat to Bayern Munich, and a surprise 2-1 loss to Manchester United have left Chelsea winless in both the Premier League a

#14 - Delap’s Absence and the Search for Solutions

After the opening three Premier League games, the biggest talking point is Liam Delap’s hamstring injury against Fulham, which is set to keep him sidelined for 6–8 weeks.

#13 - Chelsea Summer Transfer Review and 2025/26 Season Preview

In this episode, Fahd and Seun break down Chelsea’s summer signings so far and briefly discuss potential arrivals still on the horizon. They also review the pre-season fr