Despite having missed out on a number of their top transfer targets to Barcelona, Chelsea's summer recruitment was still pretty good. The new owners were able to address some of the side's problem positions, while also bringing in several talented young players for the future. That said, finding a formation that works for the club's squad remains something of an issue both in the real world and in FIFA 23.
An underperforming start to the season led to Thomas Tuchel losing his job in early September, despite the German tactician having led the club to Champions League glory just sixteen months prior. Like new manager Graham Potter, FIFA 23 players will need to figure out the best formation and starting eleven for Chelsea if they're to find any success with the west London side.
The Best Formation for Chelsea in FIFA 23
As much as Chelsea's new owner Todd Boehly would love for the team to play with a 4-4-3 formation, both he and FIFA 23 players will instead have to settle for one that uses ten outfield players. Thankfully, there are plenty of these to choose from, but the best setup for Chelsea in FIFA 23 is arguably the 4-3-3 Attack formation. This will allow players to dominate the center of the pitch while also causing plenty of problems for opposing full-backs out wide.
The Best Starting 11 for Chelsea in FIFA 23
With Chelsea having allowed Lukaku to return to Serie A on loan after only a single season back at the club, there aren't too many options when it comes to the number nine position. Thankfully, the big Belgian's replacement Aubameyang is one of the best strikers in FIFA 23 and still boasts an 87 pace stat despite his advancing years. To his left is new signing Sterling, while Mason Mount occupies the right wing berth. Behind them, the midfield three consists of Havertz, Jorginho, and Kanté
Despite his exorbitant price tag, there's no space for Cucurella in the starting eleven, with Ben Chilwell offering higher defending and physical stats as well as a higher overall. Koulibaly and Silva are shoo-ins to Chilwell's right on account of them being two of the best center backs in FIFA 23, while James is another easy pick at right back. Mendy gets the nod in between the sticks, with Kepa's rating having plummeted over the past few years.
Tactics and Instructions
Given the pace provided by Raheem Sterling and Aubameyang, it makes sense to have the team drop back and defend while they're out of possession. Likewise, fast build-up play and forward runs can prove to be deadly with this formation and starting eleven, so players should be sure to select these options when they're deciding on their team's tactics.
As for instructions, both wingers should aim to get in behind, but Sterling should cut inside while Mount is given the freedom to roam around and find space. The former should also stay forward while the team is defending, with Mount dropping back to help out James. In the center, Aubameyang should stay central and aim to get in behind whenever possible, with Havertz also staying forward to help initiate fast breaks.
FIFA 23 is available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, Nintendo Switch, and PC.