Data Analysis: A look at Chelsea and the added extra of Romelu Lukaku | OneFootball

Romelu Lukaku has finally returned to Stamford Bridge and the Premier League, two seasons after leaving Manchester United for Inter in Serie A.

While his time at Old Trafford is not particularly a memorable one, he has proved just how lethal he can be under the right management. Antonio Conte transformed Lukaku from a dormant force with huge potential into a world-class striker. His link-up and hold up play have particularly improved during his time with the Nerazzurri. His affection for Chelsea is one of the main reasons why he came back and he is considered by many to be the final touch on Tuchel’s title-challenging squad.

His Serie A stats were supreme in every way possible and Chelsea’s decision to sign Lukaku back could prove to be the biggest game-changer for them.

His opening performances prove he can be very dangerous for the opponents.

Last season we saw Chelsea missing some big chances (32) – they lacked conversion, whereas Lukaku is an elite striker with his xG matching his goals scored. One of his fortes includes exceptional aerial duels, compared to other players in the team. He acts as a focal point of contact.

When looking at the above chart, the general rule is that the longer the bar the better the performance – you can see the league average in the middle and the % is the percentile rank the player is in.

Lukaku’s stats have been extraordinary. His xG per 90 stands at a whopping 95% percentile. His ability to receive the ball extremely deep and carry it to half the length of the pitch to dangerous zones has can be fatal for the opponents. His creativity has developed over time which gives him an edge in making good decisions high up the field. Chelsea needs to improve their goal scoring abilities they created many big chances last season but were unable to convert them. Lukaku fits perfectly under such situations.

Lukaku has different skills from Werner and Havertz. His incredible physical presence, speed and technical ability can help in better holding up and linking up play. He has been involved in early build-ups and has made different runs compared to other Chelsea players.

Thomas Tuchel has employed 3-4-3 or 3-4-1-2 formations so far for the Blues – Lukaku can be used under multiple variations for example, he can act as a sole focal point of contact or play in tandem with Werner operating as a second striker. His passing accuracy has improved drastically and can be used to the advantage in creating better progressive passes in the gameplay.

The striker stands at an xG of (1.98) with six shots off target and one shot hitting the net. Considering his technical ability, he is a serious goal threat.

Lukaku’s dominance in winning aerial duels for his team will prove to be endless trouble for the opponents.

Conclusion

The Blues struggled last season in terms of converting their chances, Lukaku has the ability to be the catalyst with his penchant in contributing in early build-ups and finishing the chances. While it’s still early days, the Blues have certainly something to look forward to this season.