Rennes 1-2 Chelsea: 5 talking points as Blues secure knockout berth | UEFA Champions League 2020-21

All smiles for Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League
All smiles for Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League

#3 Marvellous Edouard Mendy between the sticks

Edouard Mendy has been in scintillating form for Chelsea
Edouard Mendy has been in scintillating form for Chelsea

Edouard Mendy has been in phenomenal form for Chelsea this season. While he could not get a clean sheet against his former team, the 28-year-old goalkeeper made a series of superb saves. He dominated the box and was confident in his handling and distribution.

Mendy has transformed Chelsea into a totally different team. The attacking talent at Chelsea was never really in doubt but there were questions raised against the defensive set-up. It is safe to say that Chelsea looks equally solid at the back this time.

#2 N'Golo Kanté back to his very best

N'Golo Kanté is back to being his best
N'Golo Kanté is back to being his best

There has been a lot of speculation about N'Golo Kanté and his role at Chelsea. Many newspapers reported that the Frenchman could actually leave the west London club. However, these stories have been put to bed by both the manager and the player.

Kante has been a revelation for Frank Lampard, who is now able to play two number #8s, with the former Leicester City man acting as the defensive wall in that midfield. The Frenchman made 7 interceptions against Rennes, more than any other player on the pitch.

The 29-year-old is a world-class midfielder and provides Chelsea with defensive stability. He is an important part of this Chelsea squad and will play a key role for the club this season.

#1 Chelsea's impressive squad strength

Frank Lampard made five substitutions to his Chelsea squad against Rennes
Frank Lampard made five substitutions to his Chelsea squad against Rennes

Chelsea made 5 substitutions against Rennes, which had the likes of N'Golo Kante, Olivier Giroud, Hakim Ziyech, Kai Havertz, and Reece James coming off the bench.

The Blues were in a comfortable position, with big names and talents on the bench. With games coming thick and fast, Frank Lampard will be hoping that his team's amazing squad depth helps them get the results they want.

With 9 games between now and the New Year, the London club has a busy and tough schedule. They are set to play Spurs, Arsenal, Everton, and Sevilla before the end of the year.

This Chelsea team is, however, flying high on confidence and will be up for the challenge.

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