Chelsea have had numerous winger options in the five years since Willian joined from Anzhi Makhachkala. It has been an area where the Blues have been particularly strong, although many have failed to last much time at Stamford Bridge, despite their obvious ability.
Andre Schurrle, Mohamed Salah, Juan Cuadrado and Kevin De Bruyne have all left the club in this period. Schurrle and Cuadrado now play for Borussia Dortmund and Juventus respectively, whilst Salah and De Bruyne have returned to the Premier League with great distinction.
Eden Hazard has also been present during this spell, with the Belgian winning a variety of individual awards. He has been the club’s talisman and has scored over 15 goals in all competitions in four of the six seasons since he moved from Lille.
Willian has never been as proficient in front of goal as his fellow teammate, although he has been the scorer of important goals. He has netted over 10 goals in his last three seasons in London, whilst regularly having been rotated in and out of the team.
His vital contribution recently saw him score twice in the FA Cup win over Hull City and then produce another man of the match display in the draw against Barcelona. He hit both posts in the first half before finally finding his range after the break and gave Chelsea a deserved lead.
The Brazilian’s strengths are in his skill and speed on the counter attack, which naturally is more likely against the better opposition. When he has space he uses it well, whilst his adaptability means he is comfortable in central areas.
The attacker has arguably been underused in his time at the club and Antonio Conte has responded badly to the suggestion that he should have picked him more. Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard said on BT Sport that he believes he “lacks consistency.”
Jose Mourinho was the manager that initially signed him from Russia and he has tried to take him to Manchester United. The two remain close, but his keenness to carry out tactical instructions was the real reason why he wanted him to come to Old Trafford.
Willian has said recently that he would only consider leaving for Barcelona or Real Madrid. The Spanish giants are unlikely to pursue him, but that’s due to his lack of star attraction.
His work-rate is exceptional, and he has a desire to give 100% no matter the circumstances. The fact he won Chelsea’s Player of the Year in the season when they finished 10th shows he isn’t the type to give up when it’s not going his sides way.
When I asked United left-back Cameron Borthwick-Jackson, who was the toughest opponent he had faced, he replied: “I'd probably say Willian, he was tricky, sharp and you have to be on the ball against him.” That’s perhaps the greatest compliment that can be made about the winger, as he doesn’t allow for complacency amongst defenders, even if his teammates are having an off day.
