While supporters and pundits have been singing the praises of N’Golo Kante, Kai Havertz and Cesar Azpilicueta after Chelsea’s superb victory against Manchester City, Andreas Christensen’s performance was overshadowed somewhat.
The Danish international had not played for three weeks due to a hamstring injury before he was asked to replace Thiago Silva six minutes before halftime in Porto.
Christensen showed no signs of rustiness and slotted in perfectly in the middle of the back three, helping to maintain the Blues’ clean sheet on the night. The 25-year-old has not always been a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge but a number of supporters on Twitter were keen to highlight his contribution on Saturday:
The Barbie turned Into A Beast. ???
— ً (@CFCSrk_) May 30, 2021
Hats off to the guy
— CFCAnts⭐️⭐️ ???? (@CfcAnts) May 30, 2021
Legacy performance, hasn’t played in weeks, he was simply outstanding.
— Becky (@becksssw) May 30, 2021
hes a different beast in a back 3
— CHAMPIONS OF EUROPE⭐⭐ (@MilesTurner93) May 30, 2021
put some respect on this guy’s name
— CFCDon (@DonMountt) May 30, 2021
Danish maldini ??
— Son Of Earth (@SonOfEarth10) May 30, 2021
This guy had the biggest glow up in the last 12 months! Legend
— Champions Of Europe ?⚽️ (@RoyalBlueUK) May 30, 2021
Gentle giant ?
— Sir?Quameh (@SQuameh) May 30, 2021
I don’t know why we need to sign another CB unless Azpi is being put to rest next season.
— KLERFIX ???? (@KofiKlerf_HIPG) May 30, 2021
What a transformation ??
— jen (@flyme2tokio) May 30, 2021
Underrated
— Champions of Europe ?? (@MorryKim_JR) May 30, 2021
It seems that Christensen’s attributes perfectly fit a back three, and it is clear that he can be trusted to pick up the slack next season as and when Silva needs a rest.
Chelsea were reportedly seeking another centre-back this summer but the Dane’s performances in recent months may make manager Thomas Tuchel reconsider.