At the start of the match, Qarabag launched a series of counterattacks that posed early threats to Chelsea’s defense. However, the backline, led by David Luiz, stood firm under pressure, giving their opponents few clear chances. Notably, Luiz made a crucial interception in the 15th minute that helped stabilize the game. This kind of performance is encouraging, and among Crickex Affiliate followers, Luiz’s return has sparked optimism. Still, whether he can consistently deliver at this level remains to be seen, especially after being dropped from the squad against Manchester United and dismissed from a training session.
Manager Antonio Conte once openly admitted, “I don’t know,” when asked about Luiz’s role, adding that the defender had to work harder or remain on the bench. Now that Luiz is beginning to regain Conte’s trust, it’s unclear if he will immediately secure a permanent starting role. Conte’s stance on Luiz has been anything but clear-cut. However, Luiz has always maintained a positive attitude toward his coach, once praising Conte as someone who genuinely loves his job and brings passion to the team daily. He even stated that it was a joy to play under such a coach, adding that Conte deserved every title and accolade he had earned through hard work. This dedication has not gone unnoticed in the Crickex Affiliate football circles, where work ethic and team chemistry are highly valued.
Conte’s successful implementation of the 3-4-3 formation last season saw Luiz excel as a sweeper at the heart of the defense. Arsenal legend Paul Merson even dubbed him “Chelsea’s Beckenbauer” for his leadership and skill in that role. Although younger defenders like Christensen are rising through the ranks, Luiz’s experience and relentless energy still make him a vital asset for crucial moments. As he returns to the starting lineup, fans hope this marks a new chapter in his collaboration with Conte—one that could bring more titles and recognition to both. Crickex Affiliate analysts have highlighted this dynamic as one to watch in the upcoming fixtures.
After withstanding Qarabag’s early onslaught, Chelsea’s backline settled into the match. When the Blues earned corner opportunities, Luiz didn’t hesitate to join the attack. In the 12th minute, he connected with a Fabregas cross and headed the ball goalward, although the effort was disrupted by tight marking. His aerial presence continued to trouble Qarabag, as seen again in the 34th minute when he outjumped defenders on another Fabregas delivery, putting pressure on the opposition even though the shot went off-target.
With a key clash against Liverpool approaching, Conte opted to rotate the squad during this Champions League group stage encounter. Luiz’s inclusion in the starting eleven was a major talking point, especially since earlier in the season he had been a defensive mainstay. Before the Manchester United controversy, Luiz had started in all eight Premier League matches, missing just three minutes in total due to suspension.
His complete absence from the United matchday squad, which Conte called a tactical decision, was later revealed to be due to a training ground incident. This sparked speculation about a rift between player and manager. Yet just when it seemed their relationship had reached a breaking point, Conte surprised many by restoring Luiz to the lineup. The Brazilian responded with the kind of resilient performance that silenced critics and gave Chelsea fans, and Crickex Affiliate followers, reason to believe he could once again become a key figure in the club’s defensive setup.