Enzo Maresca should consider utilizing Chelsea’s dynamic player as a striker against Brighton, as his speed and agility could pose significant challenges for their defenders.

Maresca Faces Key Striker Decision Ahead of Brighton Clash

 

Enzo Maresca’s biggest selection dilemma ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League match against Brighton revolves around who will lead the attack.

 

With Nicolas Jackson sidelined for several weeks due to injury and Marc Guiu also unavailable for the foreseeable future, Chelsea is short on natural strikers. Additionally, Deivid Washington is not an option, as he is still expected to finalize his loan move to Santos.

 

A Makeshift Striker Could Be the Solution

 

Given the lack of available center-forwards, it appears Maresca will have to deploy a player out of position. The manager has already acknowledged that he is considering using a winger as a temporary striker.

 

If that’s the case, Pedro Neto should be the obvious choice to fill the role. After a slow start at Chelsea, the Portuguese winger has shown signs of improvement in recent weeks. His electric pace and dribbling ability make him a constant threat, as evidenced in Chelsea’s recent FA Cup match against Brighton, where he gave former Blue Tariq Lamptey a difficult time.

 

Neto thrives when attacking at speed, whether dribbling with the ball or making runs in behind the defense. Against Brighton, Jan Paul van Hecke and Adam Webster are expected to start at center-back, and Chelsea could exploit their lack of pace by utilizing Neto’s quick movement.

 

A prime example of this tactic was seen in Chelsea’s FA Cup win, where Moisés Caicedo played a well-timed pass to Christopher Nkunku, though the chance was ultimately missed.

 

How Chelsea’s Attack Could Shape Up with Neto as Striker

 

If Neto plays through the middle, Noni Madueke is the logical replacement on the right wing, especially since he was an unused substitute in the FA Cup game against Brighton.

 

Cole Palmer is expected to continue in a central role, where he has been more involved in build-up play compared to last season.

 

On the left, Jadon Sancho is the likely starter, though his recent dip in form could prompt Maresca to give young talent Tyrique George his first Premier League start.

 

With Chelsea needing a solution up front, Neto’s pace and attacking instinct could be the key to breaking down Brighton’s defense.