How Bayern defeat exposed Chelsea's need for reinforcements and why Alvaro Morata needs game time
Chelsea defeat proved why Antonio Conte needs reinforcements
It was only a pre-season game, and we should not get too carried away, but this defeat underlined why Antonio Conte has been so vocal about needing new players. Chelsea looked desperately short of options, even with the arrivals of Alvaro Morata and Antonio Rudiger, and Conte requires at least another three players before August 31.
Without last season’s leading scorer Diego Costa and the injured Pedro they appeared disjointed and devoid of threat in attack, while the absence of Nemanja Matic even left the durable N’Golo Kante exposed. Conte will be backed by Chelsea’s board and squad strengthening is a top priority.
Morata Watch
Morata was finally introduced for his unofficial Chelsea ‘debut’ in the 63rd minute, playing on the left of a front three with the game all but won by their opponents.
There was a nice piece of footwork 20 minutes from time to release Marcos Alonso down the wing and he should provide the physical presence Conte needs, with the impending sale of Costa to Atletico Madrid. Goalscoring opportunities were non-existent, though, and the £58million record signing will be targeting a start against Inter Milan at the National Stadium here on Saturday night.
Brilliant Bayern...
We will preface this again by reminding everyone that no points were at stake here, but Bayern Munich remain an enthralling sight when in the mood. Thomas Muller was effortlessly brilliant, with his second goal beautifully taken, while Franck Ribery turned back the clock with a devilish performance on the left wing.
There aren’t many better cultured centre-halves in Europe than Mats Hummels – the only things missing were the cigar and the carpet slippers. James Rodriguez appears a natural fit, after his arrival from Real Madrid, and perennial pest Arjen Robben wasn’t even in Singapore due to injury. Carlo Ancelotti was asked on Monday about whether Chelsea should be considered a threat in the Champions League but last season’s Bundesliga champions will certainly take some beating.
