Chelsea’s search for young players continues. The Blues have been the busiest English team in the transfer windows since Todd Boehly’s takeover. With a new manager taking over, Chelsea are aiming to win trophies. It will be a tough task for the Blues against some of the more settled teams in England. However, the young players at Chelsea have a lot of potential. They could be a force to reckon with if everyone settles well in London.
The Blues are scouting young talents all over the world. They have managed to land a few, including USA’s young left-back, Caleb Wiley. The 19-year-old played for Atlanta United and has also represented his nation at various age levels. With over 70 MLS appearances, the youngster is something to look out for.
Chelsea have Marc Cucurella and Ben Chilwell as left-backs in the team. Cucurella’s performance at the Euros impressed many. He might have booked a regular place in Chelsea’s line-up. According to news sources, the Blues are planning to loan him out to Strasbourg in France. Let’s look at what this young talent brings to the table.
Upcoming USMNT talent
Chelsea signed the full-back on a six-year deal. He was playing in the Major League Soccer 2024 for Atlanta United. The above plot shows the percentile rank of the player in comparison to other left-backs in Tier 3,4 and 5 of league football. Wiley is ranked above average in the possession department. His passing is one of the things to look out for.
Caleb Wiley is quite effective when he gets the ball on the left side. His ability to cross the ball and find a teammate in danger zones makes him a threat to any opposition’s defence. Wiley completed around 44% of his crosses. The above visuals show that these passes landed around the six-yard box. The conversion rate was on the lower side by his teammates.
This plot assesses the fullback’s offensive support by their ability to deliver crosses and the accuracy of those deliveries. Wiley was ranked way above average for delivering crosses.
A full-back plays a key role in carrying his team. These days the full-backs are skilful enough to beat opposition defenders. They even end up in a goal-scoring position. The youngster scored a long ranger for his team.
The 19-year-old was also impressive in defending the left side for his team. Wiley likes to stay in the attacking half. Most of his defensive actions came in and around the penalty box. The defender also showed discipline by not giving away silly fouls in danger zones. By looking at the high regains, we can observe that Caleb knows how to counter-press and win the ball in attacking areas.
The above plot analyzes a fullback’s ability to read the game and make crucial tackles, highlighting their defensive contributions. Caleb Wiley has a high rank for making interceptions. He averages above five per 90 minutes.
Chelsea’s new addition has a chance to prove himself in Europe. He will look to flourish on his loan spell and return with hopes of first-team football.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine
