Much of the game was a boring affair with few opportunities for any of the teams, but a moment of magic was highlighted. A center in the fourth minute of Hakim Ziyech in a deep opened the defense of the experienced Seagulls. Without the skewed header of Callum Hudson-Odoi, who fortunately fell on the trail of the pressured Timo Werner, Ziyech would have started his first game under a Chelsea blouse with one assist.
It was a similar purpose to that of Quincy Promes’ boss, assisted by Ziyech, who released Ajax 2-1 against Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League at Stamford Bridge in November. Moments later, the Moroccan threw a diabolical loose kick from an unusually closed angle that surpassed Kepa Arrizabalaga.
That featured night, the Blues saw first-hand a player they would have seen for several years and how devastating it had an effect on his left foot.
Here, VAVEL examines the effect of Ziyech on the Blues.
Last season, Chelsea had an offensive left-footed player single. Willian ranked the highest for this specific position on Frank Lampard’s third favorite front.
Also during the season, Chelsea has une uselessly opposed groups that deeply defended and have continually channeled and forced to produce hopeful centres.
It was not a successful tactic and, without any of Chelsea’s attacking players moving comfortably with his left foot, it meant the Blues’ attack could be predictable in close matches.
Ziyech’s vision and passing ability have earned him 41 assists in the league over the more than 3 seasons and will increase an additional size to Chelsea’s game in the future.
Despite the balance he can provide Chelsea’s attack, Ziyech may find it a struggle to hold down a permanent place in the Lampard’s side.
The West London club has great attack power, Timo Werner, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Christian Pulisic and the addition of German star Kai Havertz would be very close.
With a slight frame, spectators can be quite involved with Ziyech’s ability to adapt to the face and speed of the Premier League.
Fortunately, the 27-year-old knows how to use his talent in midfield and attack.
Nine of Ziyech’s thirteen assists last season came here from an initial central position, not their top consistent spot in the team. None of the Chelsea players last season who also held centre positions last season were able to return in a similar way.
Boss Lampard knows very well the various features that Ziyech has to offer. He told the club’s website: “I know your qualities. He is a player to which we hope to bring creativity. He’s got a fair left foot, he plays regularly on the right side but he can also play the leader.”
Ajax coach Erik ten Hag is leading a very urgent game with fluent attacking football, similar to what Lampard tried to achieve with the Blues. This means that the 35 million pound signing suits the English game well. With the coronavirus ending the league season, Ziyech also had plenty of time to get used to the other demands in education and may be well-ready for the season’s opening against Brighton.
Much of Chelsea’s urgent duties were entrusted to Mason Mount last season, who seemed tired on several occasions. Ziyech may simply be offering a break or even leading the way in this area. The Moroccan has won 22 tackles in 21 league games, while Mount has won 31 tackles in 37 games.
For two purposes and 4 assists this year in the organizing stage of the Champions League, Ziyech guilty for a purpose consistent with the game. All symptoms recommend that you will have no problems adjusting to the Premier League standard.