Casadei's first Chelsea start: dominant in the air, high pass accuracy

Casadei’s first Chelsea start: dominant in the air, high pass accuracy

Italy talent Cesare Casadei made his full Chelsea debut in the EFL Cup against Barrow on Tuesday: he won five aerial duels and completed 55 passes from 61.

Italian midfielder Casadei started his first competitive match at Chelsea on Tuesday night, contributing to a 5-0 home win against EFL League Two side Barrow.

The 21-year-old had previously made 11 appearances with the Blues, but all as a substitute. He started at Stamford Bridge this time and played for the full 90 minutes.

As reported by SofaScore, Casadei made 77 touches and finished the game with 90% passing accuracy (55 from 61). He didn’t make any key passes and lost possession 12 times. However, he was dominant in the air, winning five aerial duels from six.

Casadei heatmap vs. Barrow (via Sofascore)

The Inter Academy product was less effective in ground duels, winning two challenges out of 10, but he made three interceptions during the game.

Casadei reacted to his Chelsea debut on social media by sharing an Instagram post from the Premier League club and adding a blue heart emoji.

Casadei hasn’t yet made his Premier League debut this season. He was linked with Fiorentina and Lazio in the summer transfer window, and his contract at Stamford Bridge ends on June 2028.