Identifying Chelsea’s Next Left Back

Since the departure of club legend Ashley Cole in 2014, Chelsea have spent over £80 million on left backs of varied profiles and ages in an attempt to replace him. However, none of them have managed to hold down a spot in what has been Chelsea’s problem position for six years. 

In fact, it is not a stretch to say that the best club’s most consistent performer in that position has been César Azpilicueta, a right back forced to play on the opposite flank due to his reliability.

While Marcos Alonso has offered plenty of memorable goals, his lack of athleticism and defensive nous make him unsuited to the left back position. On the other hand, he is a thoroughly potent weapon as a wing-back, where he has more protection and can express himself going forward.