A 4-0 demolition of Southampton may not carry the weight of a statement victory, but it was exactly what Chelsea required last night.
Southampton offered little resistance. They have been conceding goals at an alarming rate all season, and Chelsea took full advantage.
It was a reminder of the attacking quality within the squad and, perhaps more importantly, a much-needed confidence boost.
The win does not erase the struggles that have plagued Chelsea since the turn of the year.
A team that could have topped the table in December has since stumbled through an inconsistent run, with only three wins in their last 11 league games before facing Southampton.
The frustration among supporters has been evident, with pre-match protests against the ownership highlighting a deeper dissatisfaction beyond just form.
The club’s erratic recruitment strategy remains a key talking point. Chelsea have signed 25 players since June 2023, yet the squad still lacks cohesion.
Christopher Nkunku, who was heralded as a marquee signing, has had to adjust to a role that does not entirely suit him.
Pedro Neto, naturally a wide player, has been repurposed as a central forward. Injuries to Romeo Lavia and Nicolas Jackson have compounded the challenges, leaving the attack disjointed.
Despite these issues, the return to winning ways offers renewed hope.
Levi Colwill and Marc Cucurella’s goals capped off a dominant performance, and there was a sense that Chelsea could have scored more had they needed to.
Manager Enzo Maresca remains adamant that his side are on the right track. “We are third, one point from third,” he said after the match. “That shows how good we have been.”
The numbers back him up – Chelsea remain firmly in the top-four battle.
The challenge now is building on this momentum. Tougher opponents await, and Chelsea cannot afford another dip in form. But for now, they have steadied the ship.
Southampton did not put up much of a fight, but Chelsea took full advantage, which is a step in the right direction.
