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Chelsea have nine players Ruben Amorim would love amid Mauricio Pochettino pressure

Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim
Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim -Credit:Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images


Chelsea could already have nine ideal players for Ruben Amorim, as Mauricio Pochettino's future at Stamford Bridge continues to be questioned. Ruben Amorim is reportedly among the frontrunners to take over from Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea this summer, and his appointment could unlock the full potential of several stars currently at Stamford Bridge.

The Sporting boss hasn't dismissed a Premier League move when the season concludes, with Liverpool and West Ham previously linked. Meanwhile, the Express reports that Pochettino's position remains precarious at the Blues following their 5-0 loss to Arsenal in midweek, which highlighted the difference between the two London rivals.

Despite having an expensive squad at his disposal, Chelsea languish in ninth place in the Premier League and will need a strong end to the season to secure European football. Consequently, rumours persist that Pochettino may leave the club in the summer. Amorim could be one of those in contention, and nine players could thrive under the 39-year-old coach's 3-4-2-1 system.

Amorim's system is built on a robust back three, and he could have a trio of stars who would excel in his setup. Wide centre-backs would be responsible for starting attacks from deep and stepping into midfield when necessary, which could see captain Reece James transition into that role to accommodate some of his teammates. Levi Colwill, having thrived in a similar role at Brighton previously, should fit seamlessly into the left-sided role, with Wesley Fofana capable of playing centrally if he can overcome his injury nightmares.

Malo Gusto, with his attacking prowess and recovery speed, has all the attributes of an Amorim wing-back. The Frenchman has been one of the few bright spots for the Blues this season and could further improve next season under new management. If Amorim were to be appointed, perhaps a left wing-back signing could be on the horizon, but Ben Chilwell has previously demonstrated the qualities of a suitable candidate for the position.

Chelsea's expensive midfield duo, Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, are slowly forming a solid partnership and could progress further in a new system. Amorim's midfielders need to be effective at both ends of the pitch, and although Sporting's current pairing are a different profile from Caicedo and Fernandez, they possess other qualities that could benefit Chelsea under the Portuguese coach.

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Amorim's preference for forwards who cut inside and operate in half spaces, rather than traditional wingers, could be a boost for Cole Palmer and Christopher Nkunku. Both players are comfortable playing as number 10s and would be able to fully express themselves as part of the same starting XI. This would provide Chelsea with plenty of attacking impetus without depriving the Blues of a centre forward.