Doku Poses Major Threat to Chelsea in FA Cup Final, Says Guardiola

Chelsea will need to pay close attention to Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium this Saturday, with manager Pep Guardiola singling out the Belgian as a crucial player. Despite Erling Haaland being Manchester City's leading scorer this season, Guardiola believes Doku's recent performances make him the primary threat to the West London side.

Doku, who began on the bench in Manchester City's recent Premier League victory over Crystal Palace, is expected to return to the starting lineup on the left flank for the final. His form has been a standout feature for City in recent weeks, making him a player Chelsea's defence, potentially including Malo Gusto or Reece James, will need to contain.

Guardiola's Praise for Doku

Pep Guardiola has openly acknowledged Doku's significant progress, describing him as "incredible" this season. When asked if Doku has evolved into one of the most dangerous forwards globally, Guardiola responded affirmatively, stating, "Yes absolutely I completely agree." He noted Doku's inherent dribbling ability but highlighted his recent improvement in final passes and goalscoring.

Guardiola emphasized the importance of players like Doku making such actions to win games, especially against strong opponents. He believes Doku has taken "an incredible step forward" in his development, demonstrating the confidence to impact crucial matches.

Key facts

Doku's Impactful Recent Form

Doku has been in sensational form, contributing five goals and two assists in his last seven appearances across all competitions. This impressive run includes a goal against Chelsea in a 3-0 Premier League victory at Stamford Bridge last month, as well as a critical equaliser in the FA Cup semi-final win against Southampton.

Over the past two seasons in the FA Cup, Doku has been directly involved in more goals than any other player, with three goals and five assists. His five assists and 40 dribbles during this period also lead all Premier League players. His overall season statistics include 22 goal contributions (eight goals, 14 assists).

Coping with High Demands

Doku himself recognizes the elevated expectations at Manchester City. He told The National Sport, "I've learnt to win games. That's the difference from where I came. In Man City, the demand is higher, more quality players, also [they] expect you to win every game." He highlighted the constant pressure to perform in finals and compete for trophies, a different type of pressure he has learned to manage.

He added that the club's consistent pursuit of goals and the collective effort from everyone involved make it a special environment. This adaptation to a high-pressure environment underscores his readiness for the FA Cup final.

Defensive Challenge for Chelsea

Chelsea's interim manager Calum McFarlane faces a tactical decision regarding who will be tasked with marking Doku. Malo Gusto, who started in the Blues' recent 1-1 draw with Liverpool, could retain his spot at right-back. Alternatively, captain Reece James might be deployed in that role, or even in midfield, depending on McFarlane's strategy. Neutralising Doku's pace and dribbling ability will be a key factor for Chelsea in their bid to secure the FA Cup.

Fuente: Sports Mole Football RSS https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/chelsea/fa-cup/news/chelsea-should-fear-one-incredible-man-city-star-in-fa-cup-final-and-its-not-haaland_597638.html