Since arriving at Stamford Bridge from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2019 for $64 million, Christian Pulisic has shown that he is capable of spearheading Chelsea’s next assault on the Premier League title. Under Frank Lampard’s guidance, the 21-year-old has taken his game to new heights. Rather frighteningly for other top-flight English clubs, the American only looks as if he’ll get better in time. So, let’s look at whether the winger can be the catalyst in the Blues’ hunt for their seventh league title.
A Need to Avoid Comparisons to Eden Hazard
Following his switch from the Bundesliga, Pulisic arrived with pressure to hit the ground running in England. In the same summer, Eden Hazard departed the Bridge for Real Madrid on a five-year deal. As a left-sided winger, comparisons were instantly drawn between himself and the Belgian. For many players, this pressure would likely have seen them crumble. However, the 21-year-old used this overwhelming expectation to prove himself a Premier League-level attacker.
In many ways, Pulisic’s opening season with Chelsea shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. It was always evident from his time at the Signal Iduna Park that he had the ability to perform in England should he adapt to the physicality of England’s top-flight division. Moreover, the pressure of the Blues faithful is unlikely to compare to that from his home nation, especially with him being touted as America’s first soccer superstar.
Fundamentally, the recent excitement surrounding American soccer can be attributed to the rise of Pulisic, who was involved in 21 goals in 34 appearances for Chelsea in 2019-20, as per Transfermarkt. This new-found admiration for the sport is evident from soccer’s popularity at numerous sports betting platforms. At BonusFinder, a number of betting sites are offering free no deposit bets across various markets, including the English Premier League and UEFA Champions League. With sign-up promotions available to prospective players, bettors will be able to immerse themselves in Pulisic’s career throughout his time with the Blues and the international team.
Competition for Places Will Only be a Good Thing
In seeking to strengthen his squad, Lampard has been backed considerably by the club’s owner, Roman Abramovich. At the time of writing, the 42-year-old head coach has added Hakim Ziyech, Kai Havertz, and Timo Werner to his attack for the 2020-21 campaign. Interestingly, these arrivals will likely take Chelsea’s offense to a new level, particularly when Pulisic returns from injury.
However, aside from aiding the Blues as a competitive unit, Pulisic will need to deliver consistent performances if he wishes to be a first-team regular. While Lampard is clearly a fan of the 21-year-old, Werner is also capable of playing off the left flank. Throughout his career, when deployed a left-side winger, the German striker has registered some impressive numbers.
At one stage under Julian Nagelsmann at RB Leipzig, Werner scored six goals in ten appearances from the wing, as per the official Bundesliga website. If Lampard is directly looking to replace Hazard’s goal contributions, then starting the 24-year-old on the left will undoubtedly be an option.
The Ability to Lead for Club and Country
With further game time, Pulisic will become increasingly acclimatized the pace and physicality of the Premier League. In turn, the 21-year-old will be at the forefront of the Blues’ plans over the coming years. Should he fulfill his potential, then Chelsea may have one of the world’s most marketable and talented players on their hands.
