See how Chelsea fans initially reacted to Moises Caicedo starting at right-back and Josh Acheampong starting against Bournemouth

Moises Caicedo
Photo: Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Enzo Maresca’s starting lineup for Chelsea’s 2-2 draw against Bournemouth sparked significant reactions from fans, particularly due to Moises Caicedo’s role at right-back and Josh Acheampong’s inclusion at centre-back alongside Levi Colwill.

The decision to deploy Caicedo in an inverted right-back role, with Romeo Lavia and Enzo Fernandez as a double pivot, drew mixed opinions. Some fans questioned the tactical move, with gdewulf commenting, “Oh, we’re doing the Caicedo RB thing again?”

However, others embraced the innovative setup. Alex Goldberg said: “Honestly love that Chelsea XI. Caicedo at RB defensively but will join Lavia in the midfield in possession and will allow Enzo to push up. Beautiful. And Josh back at RCB next to Levi. Let’s f***ing go!!”

Acheampong’s rise to a starting position also garnered significant attention. Felix expressed admiration: “I like that team a lot tbf. It’s crazy that Josh Acheampong has so seamlessly become a starter for us. So impressive. Caicedo inverted RB will always be a slight risk since it’s relatively new to him, but I like having all of Caicedo, Lavia, and Enzo starting.”

Similarly, Bozzetyp remarked on Acheampong’s impressive performances: “I do really find this Acheampong starting stuff interesting. He must really, really impress. It’s not like Tosin has been horrible while playing.”

Chelsea Youth highlighted the significance of Cobham graduates forming the defensive pairing: “You spend hundreds of millions of pounds and come back around to your starting CB pairing coming from Cobham. Go well again, Josh.”

Despite the optimism, some fans voiced concerns about depth, with jumper62 noting: “Can imagine James/Gusto coming on for Lavia at half time, but I love this lineup. The lack of midfield options on the bench is worrying ngl.”

At the end, it backfired badly, as Chelsea managed to get a 2-2 draw, with Moises Caicedo causing a penalty.