5 Things Learned: AC Milan 0-2 Chelsea | Champions League

Graham Potter’s Chelsea side continue their good run of form with a crucial win away at AC Milan.

Chelsea started well and were awarded a penalty just before the midway point of the first half when Fikayo Tomori brought down Mason Mount inside the box, and the English defender would go on to get sent off.

Italian midfielder Jorginho went on to cooly tuck the spot kick away to give Potter's side the lead.

It only got worse for the Serie A side when some nice football saw Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang run through to net his third Chelsea goal.

In the second half, the Blues were well organised and managed to see out the game to earn themselves a crucial three points in the Champions League.

Here are five things Absolute Chelsea learned from Wednesday’s win.

1) ‘Potterball’ is in full force

Prior to Potter’s appointment, many fans were disappointed with the style of football that the side were playing. The lack of urgency and results saw the manager lose his job. Since Potter’s arrival, despite the draw at home to Salzburg, the side’s performances have picked up massively. In every game so far, the head coach has adopted new systems to try and get the job done. From five at the back to four at the back, players have adapted well to his new system. After going two up, Milan were always going to come out guns blazing. However, Potter opted to stick Connor Gallagher in midfield to increase the numbers. From then on in, the side looked calm and composed in possession.

2) Mason Mount with a point to prove

Even though few players were performing under Thomas Tuchel, many were quick to criticise the performances of Mount. After failing to deliver, Mason has transformed under Potter. Mount has seemed to have been let loose under the new management. The Chelsea faithful have seen glimpses of last season’s form since Potter came in. In the first few games, Mount has looked sharp and creative in the final third. In the showdown with AC Milan, the Englishman was active and dangerous every time he picked up possession and was always a threat in the final third.

3) Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang providing those big moments when it matters

Many questions were raised following Aubameyang’s signing. The 33-year-old had a successful stint at Barcelona, but many thought that his Premier League days were over. After signing for the club, his performances have surprised a fair few of the Blues faithful. The forward has shown glimpses of his prime form. After scoring against Crystal Palace and AC Milan, the forward was awarded a start in the away showdown with the Italian side. In typical Aubameyang fashion, he was consistent when called upon. When it came to his final third play, the forward managed to tuck away his only chance of the game. Fans will be eager to see if Aubameyang can maintain his current form after a solid display in Milan.

Chelsea scoring their second against AC Milan at the San Siro. (Alamy)

4) Ben Chilwell continuing to impress

Ben Chilwell’s campaign last year was affected majorly by the long term injury. In the summer, the club decided to sign Marc Cucurella from Brighton in order to provide cover. It would appear that the Englishman is now match fit as he continues to start and put in consistent displays. In the fixture against AC Milan, Chilwell’s work rate from start to finish was exceptional. Every time the wingback was called upon, he would answer anything that came at him in what was an impressive stint.

5) Chelsea’s ability to see off games is refreshing to see

Under Tuchel, the side were known for its ability to perform in big games. Since Potter joined the club, he was immediately in the firing line with quick games against AC Milan. Potter’s game plans were brilliantly executed by the team. In the away showdown, the Blues were compact at the back and took their chances when they arrived. After going 2-0 up in the first half, the side were well-organised throughout the second half to keep their lead and come away with all three points. It is fair to say that every single individual put in a quality display.

Next up, Chelsea will travel to Villa Park to play Aston Villa as they look to maintain their cracking run of form.

Topics: AC Milan, Chelsea, Champions League

James Evans

Contributor for Absolute Chelsea. Journalism Graduate.

@EvansJames99