Chelsea's recent 5-1 win over Southampton was just one of a series of positive results. They are one of the most entertaining and in-form teams in the Premier League this season.
The Blues' expected goals (xG) against Southampton are the highest ever recorded by a Premier League side (5.29).
In all competitions, Chelsea have scored 57 goals in 22 matches, 7 more than their achievements in the 2022-2023 season.
The Blues' current goals-per-game ratio (2.6) is their best in their entire history. The Stamford Bridge side have even scored more goals than Premier League leaders Liverpool. Of course, having to compete in the Europa Conference League has helped Chelsea accumulate many goals.
However, these numbers are not random or coincidence. It felt like this was the maturity of a team that was hungry for stability. And in Enzo Maresca, they have found a coach who is calm and tough.
Chelsea are currently on 28 points with second-placed Arsenal in the Premier League. This is an unimaginable feat under Graham Potter or Mauricio Pochettino. And the rise of the Blues as a team also has a positive impact on individuals.
In addition to Cole Palmer's good form, there is the progress of players who have been criticized for many recent seasons. Most people thought Enzo Fernandez would be dropped, similar to Moises Caicedo. Meanwhile, there is great disappointment in Nicolas Jackson's finishing ability.
All that has changed. A fresh start and a clearer plan, with consistent selection and a fixed 4-2-3-1 formation, has allowed the Chelsea players to thrive.
Jackson has turned expected goals into realistic goals and looks like a striker capable of leading a title- contending side. Fernandez has finally found space to create in midfield, while Palmer remains a shining star.
Then there is the rise of Christopher Nkunku, who has scored 8 of his last 9 appearances, contributing to a total of 12 goals. Confidence at Stamford Bridge is skyrocketing and relying on Palmer has become a thing of the past.
However, looking at it more strictly, Chelsea are still a team in transition. Their defensive flaws are often overshadowed by their attacking performance. They often win games by scoring more goals than their opponents. This is not a sustainable way to develop.
Clubs with a squad consisting mainly of young and inexperienced players rarely maintain consistency throughout the entire season. And Maresca himself will be well aware of the more difficult challenges ahead. This weekend's trip to Tottenham will be risky for the Blues.
