Frank Lampard is no stranger to challenges. He faced many of them during his illustrious playing career at Chelsea, where he won 13 trophies and became the club’s all-time top scorer. He also faced them during his first stint as Chelsea manager, when he had to cope with a transfer ban, a young squad, and high expectations. But his second spell at Stamford Bridge may be his toughest challenge yet. Lampard has been appointed interim manager until the end of the season, following the dismissal of Graham Potter, who left the club in ninth place in the Premier League.
Lampard inherits a team that has underperformed this season, despite spending over £200 million on new players in the summer. He has to deal with a demanding owner, a competitive league, and a squad that needs improvement. He also has to win over some fans who may still be bitter about his sacking two years ago. But Lampard also has some opportunities to make his mark. He knows the club inside and out, has a loyal fan base, a talented group of players, and a passion for the game. He also has a chance to prove himself as a manager and maybe even earn himself a permanent job.
Lampard will have to make some tough decisions in his short tenure. He will have to find the best system and formation for his players, he will have to restore confidence and morale in the dressing room, he will have to give chances to young players and outcasts, and he will have to utilize his experience and connection with the club. Lampard has shown before that he can overcome adversity and succeed at Chelsea. He will need to do it again if he wants to save Chelsea’s season, and maybe even his managerial career.
Impact of Frank Lampard’s return on Christian Pulisic and other Chelsea outcasts
One of the players who may be looking forward to working with Frank Lampard again is Christian Pulisic. The American winger had a mixed relationship with Lampard during his first spell as Chelsea’s manager, but he also enjoyed his best form under him.
Pulisic joined Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund in 2019, but he had to wait until the summer to link up with Lampard, who had just replaced Maurizio Sarri. Pulisic struggled to adapt to the Premier League and had to fight for his place on the team. But Pulisic gradually won over Lampard with his performances, especially after the coronavirus lockdown in 2020. He scored nine goals and provided four assists in 19 games in all competitions, including a stunning solo goal against Manchester City that helped Chelsea secure a Champions League spot
Pulisic also scored in the FA Cup final against Arsenal, although he suffered a hamstring injury that ruled him out for the rest of the season. He recovered in time for the start of the 2020–21 season but struggled with additional injuries and a loss of form.
Lampard was sacked in January 2021, and Pulisic had to adjust to a new manager in Thomas Tuchel, who had given him his Dortmund debut. However, their reunion was not as smooth as expected, as Pulisic found himself on the bench more often than not.
Tuchel was also sacked in September 2022, and his replacement, Graham Potter, did not seem to fancy Pulisic either. The 23-year-old started only nine games under Potter in all competitions and scored just one goal.
Now Pulisic has another chance to prove himself under Lampard, who knows his qualities and potential. Pulisic may benefit from Lampard’s attacking style of play, which suits his pace and dribbling skills. He may also feel more confident and motivated under a manager who trusts and values him.
Pulisic is not the only Chelsea player who may be hoping for a fresh start under Lampard. Other outcasts such as Hakim Ziyech, Kai Havertz, Timo Werner, and Ross Barkley may also see this as an opportunity to revive their careers at Stamford Bridge.
Lampard signed Ziyech and Havertz in 2020, but they failed to live up to their price tags under him and his successors. Werner was also a big-money signing who struggled for goals and confidence. Barkley was loaned out by Lampard to Aston Villa, where he impressed, but he returned to Chelsea only to be frozen out by Potter. Lampard may give these players another chance to show what they can do, especially if he adopts a more flexible and creative system that allows them to express themselves. He may also use his experience and connection with the club to inspire them and get the best out of them.
Lampard has a lot of work to do to turn Chelsea’s season around, but he also has a lot of talent at his disposal. He may be able to unlock the potential of Pulisic and other Chelsea outcasts who have been waiting for their opportunity to shine.
Reaction of Chelsea Fans and Players to Frank Lampard’s Appointment
Frank Lampard’s return to Chelsea as caretaker manager until the end of the season has sparked mixed reactions from fans and players. Some have welcomed the club legend back with open arms, while others have questioned his credentials and motives.
Some Chelsea fans have expressed excitement and optimism about Lampard’s return, hoping that he can inspire the team and restore some pride and identity. They have also pointed out his previous achievements as a player and a manager, and his connection with the club and the fans.
However, not all Chelsea fans are happy with Lampard’s appointment. Some have criticized his managerial record and his style of play, questioning his ability to improve the team and compete with the top clubs. They have also accused him of being opportunistic and disloyal, citing his previous spells at Manchester City and Everton.
The reaction of Chelsea players to Lampard’s appointment has also been varied. Some have welcomed him back with enthusiasm and respect, while others have been more cautious and reserved.
One player who may be happy to see Lampard again is Mason Mount, who was one of his favorites during his first spell. Mount made his debut under Lampard at Derby County in 2018-19, before following him to Chelsea in 2019-20. He was one of Chelsea’s most consistent performers under Lampard, scoring 11 goals and providing six assists in 52 games in all competitions.
On the other hand, some players may be wary of Lampard’s return, especially those who did not get much playing time or fell out of favor under him. For example, Kepa Arrizabalaga had a public spat with Lampard over being substituted in the 2019 League Cup final. The Spanish goalkeeper also criticized Lampard’s tactics in an interview last year, saying that he preferred Tuchel’s style of play. Kepa may be worried about losing his place to Edouard Mendy, who was signed by Lampard and is now fit again.
In conclusion, Frank Lampard’s return to Chelsea as the caretaker manager is a bold and surprising move that has divided opinions among fans and players. Lampard has a lot of challenges and opportunities ahead of him, as he tries to revive Chelsea’s season and maybe even his managerial career. He will need the support and trust of everyone at the club, especially the fans who adore him as a legend.
If you are a Chelsea fan who wants to see Lampard in action at Stamford Bridge, you can buy tickets for home Premier League matches to support the club and the manager. Don’t miss this chance to witness history as Lampard returns to Chelsea for a second spell. Let us know what you think of Lampard’s return in the comments below. Come on you Blues!
