Werner’s Return to Form and Tuchel’s Tactical Shift Propel Chelsea into the Top Four
Chelsea’s resurgence under Thomas Tuchel continued with a dominant victory over a struggling Newcastle side, as Timo Werner ended his goal-scoring drought. With Chelsea climbing into the Premier League’s top four, the win highlighted Tuchel’s tactical clarity and the revitalization of players who had been underperforming under Frank Lampard.
A simple tactical adjustment appears to have been the key for Werner, who struggled as a winger in Lampard’s 4-3-3 system. In Tuchel’s more structured approach, playing as an inside-left, a role he thrived in at RB Leipzig, Werner rediscovered his form. He played a pivotal role in the match, assisting Olivier Giroud’s opener before scoring himself – his first goal in 20 matches.
Tuchel’s trust in Werner and his ability to unlock the potential of Chelsea’s attacking lineup have been evident. The German manager has already made an impact, with Chelsea showing more purpose and aggression on the ball, as well as off it. Tuchel’s meritocratic approach has also seen players like Kepa Arrizabalaga return to action, with the goalkeeper making a crucial late save to preserve the clean sheet.
Newcastle, on the other hand, were woeful at both ends of the pitch, and Steve Bruce’s side looks increasingly vulnerable. With Fulham creeping closer to them in the relegation battle, Newcastle’s troubles seem far from over.
