The first thing that comes to mind when we think of Kante is his never-ending stamina, uncanny ability to sense attacks, his natural desire to retrieve the ball and the tackling prowess which has been on another level this season. His astute understanding of the game along with his positioning sense puts him in the bracket of the best midfielders in the world.
Looking at the current market situation, the signing of Kante was always going to be a steal for Chelsea. The Frenchman had many clubs interested in him in the summer window, including the likes of United and Arsenal, however,the 25-year-old opted for Chelsea, primarily because Antonio Conte desperately wanted the all-action midfielder at Stamford Bridge.
Role at Chelsea vs role at Leicester City
Kante was always going to be a perfect fit in the Conte system. The Italian demands his midfielder play a high pressing game and in Kante, the blues have a perfect match. Playing alongside Matic, who is also known for his ball retrieval skills, Kante is allowed to burst forward, therefore, contributing in attacks as well as defense.The Frenchman has started in 27 of 28 premier league games and has been a crucial player, perhaps the most crucial player.
He is averaging 1.8 tackles and 2.4 interceptions per game, which is a fall from last season (3.38 tackles won and 4.22 interceptions at Leicester). However, he is now playing in a side which dominates possession. At Leicester, the gameplan was about sitting deep and waiting to win the ball inside their own third and launch a high-speed counter attack, exploiting the space left behind by the opposition. There are fewer opportunities for him to win the ball back, therefore his fall in ball retrievals shouldn’t be seen as a downfall in his performance.
Leicester City Chelsea
Appearances
36(1)
27
Interceptions
4.2
2.4
Tackles
3.4
1.8
Passing accuracy
82%
88%
Defensive errors
2
1
More than just holding
At Leicester, he was often given the defensive role because of his work rate and the ability to cover spaces. However, at Chelsea, that role is evenly distributed between him and Matic. Not only is he a box-to-box midfielder now, but also a creator. The 25-year-old now completes 88% of his passes, as compared to 82% last season. His decision-making ability has improved significantly as the Frenchman has created 17 chances so far this season.
Along with Matic, the former Leicester man has formed a formidable partnership, constantly helping out their defense and attack. He can be ugly in a one on one situation, link with the fullbacks when needed and make forward runs. His goal against United in the 4–0 win was a perfect demonstration of his sudden bursts. Out of his 88% of pass completion, 71% has been forward passes showcasing his intelligent distribution while going forward.
Role in Chelsea’s resurrection and success
The 25-year-old has played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s resurrection this season. The blues finished 10th last season with 50 points. They are now on the course to win their second Premier League title in three years, with 69 points already in 28 matches.
While Conte deserves credit for his tactical craftiness, his players equally deserve just as much credit. However, there is one player who has been a key to Chelsea’s success this season — N’golo Kante.
Chelsea’s midfield was in shambles last season, with Fabregas offering nothing going forward and Matic clueless in defense. Kante was the elusive solution Chelsea had been searching for last season. Threading the defense and attack seamlessly while winning the ball back with impeccably timed tackles, Kante has evinced he is not merely a one-season wonder.
Impressive stats
Best known for his combative attributes in midfield, Kante has been partnered with Matic in the 3–4–3 formation for the majority of the season. His performance has been nothing short of outstanding, the stats flaunting the same. His 88% pass accuracy has been bettered only by Granit Xhaka, while defensive score and tackles are the best in the league, compared to the players in his position.
With him and his team both in sizzling form, it certainly looks like the midfielder will be lifting the Premier League trophy the second time in a row.
