Will Conte's 3-5-2 formation work in Chelsea?

            Antonio Conte is the man that has been appointed to take over the permanent managerial seat at Chelsea after the sack of Jose Mourinho in December. He signed a 3-year deal and would begin is work after EURO 2016. Conte is a man who is famous for employing the 3-5-2 formation This formation features 3 central defenders, 2 wing backs on the wing, 3 central midfielders and 2 forwards. Conte won 3 successive scudetto titles in Juventus from 2012 employing the formation.

            This formation has been employed by different managers in the EPL at different times and there have been mixed results. Brendan Rogers employed the formation in Liverpool during the 2013-2014 season. It was partially successful as they were on a 11-match winning streak. Louis Van Gaal employed the same formation in 2014-2015 season. He used Di Maria (LMAO) as a wing-back. This formation achieved underwhelming performances. Paul Lambert employed the formation in Aston villa from 2012-2015 and this was a horror show. They suffered the heaviest defeat in the hands of Chelsea 8-0) during this period.

             There are pros and cons of this formation. When in attack, the defensive midfielder moves behind the strikers to provide support and distribute passes. The full backs temporarily become wing backs to provide passing options. When the other team is with the ball, the formation is switched to 4-4-2 formation. In case of a counter, they won't be able to switch to a defensive formation. Worse still, if the opposing team employs a single forward formation or a false nine, the 3 centre backs would have to man mark a single forward. They have to be relentless and work as a unit.

             Right now, Chelsea's defensive unit won't be able to provide strong options for the formation. John Terry and Ivanovic are aging, Cahill and Zouma may be good options but their underwhelming performances last season may cast little doubts over their abilities. Azpilicueta seems to be declining over the years. Even in midfield, Magic has proved to be the commanding DM he was two years ago. Cesc Fabregas seems to have rejuvenated his form. Asides Fabregas, there are no natural options for the central midfield role. There's only one 1st team striker available. With all these, Conte might want to reconsider unless he makes new signings that would fit his formation. His vast experience as a player and manager would attract top players to Chelsea. The only impediment is Chelsea missing out on European football. All the same, let's see what Conte has to offer with his famous formation.