Chelsea’s form has been inconsistent this season, but the return of a key player has proved decisive, helping the Blues secure back-to-back wins following the international break.

Moises Caicedo’s return has been particularly significant, with his statistics across the last two games underlining just how much Chelsea missed him. His presence has restored the control, defensive solidity and midfield balance that were lacking in his absence.

The headline figure is his passing and bringing a calmness to the build-up play with Caicedo completing 117 of 121 passes across the two matches, a success rate of around 97%. That level of accuracy matters for a team that has struggled to keep possession under pressure. He rarely gives the ball away, which means Chelsea start fewer attacks from a turnover and spend less time defending their own box.

These are not ambitious passes aimed at picking out Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers or João Pedro in the final third. Instead, they are simple, effective passes that bypass the opposition’s pressing players and allow Chelsea to progress through the opening stages of their build-up.

His defensive numbers are just as important, and what he is in the team for. Caicedo made three interceptions, four clearances and four recoveries, and won three of his four tackles. Those figures show a player who breaks up play before it becomes dangerous. 

Three interceptions mean he read the game and cut out passes early. Four recoveries show he picked up loose balls in the areas where Chelsea were vulnerable with Reece James and Romeo Lavia in the middle. Winning 75% of his tackles shows he picks his moments and commits only when he can win the ball.

Caicedo may be Chelsea’s £100 million man, but performances like these show exactly why he commands that price tag.

The combination is what makes him so valuable. Few midfielders offer both near-perfect distribution and consistent defensive output, and Chelsea have lacked that balance for much of this season. 

With the Ecuadorian in the side, Chelsea’s defence gains vital protection, the attackers have a reliable passing outlet, and Xabi Alonso has a midfield capable of withstanding the opposition’s press. Caicedo brings balance to the side, connecting each phase of play and allowing the team to function as a cohesive unit.

Alonso will be desperate to keep Caicedo fit and available, with the last two games demonstrating just how much more balanced and effective Chelsea are with him anchoring the midfield.