10 Biggest Questions Surrounding Chelsea's Title Bid

7. Does Nemanja Matic Need A New Partner In Midfield?

If all goes well, Cesc Fabregas will be an absolutely instrumental signing for Chelsea this season, bringing creativity to a side which often struggled to break down deep defences last season. He's a truly world class addition to the squad and will be raring to go following Spain's early exit from the World Cup. Where he'll be starting, however, remains to be seen. He seems a natural fit for the No.10 position previously occupied by Oscar, yet Mourinho has a fondness for the Brazilian which may push Fabregas back into a deeper role alongside the team's imposing defensive midfielder, Nemanja Matic. The 6'4 Serb quickly proved himself after re-signing for the club during last season's winter transfer window, offering a keen eye for interceptions alongside the mobility so often found lacking in his nearest alternative, John Obi Mikel. Yet the best results of last season came when Matic was positioned alongside a partner of similar height and strength, specifically the converted defender David Luiz, who has since done a runner to Paris St Germain for an eye-watering estimated fee of over £40 million. For all Fabregas' many talents, his defensive contribution is average at best and he doesn't offer much in terms of physicality. Against Manchester City's pairing of Fernandinho and Yaya Toure, or any mid-table side emphasizing power over grace, there's a danger that Matic's considerable presence won't be enough to prevent the midfield being overrun if his partner is unable to offer any further protection. With Chelsea in outstanding financial shape, many fans are calling for the club to splash out on Paul Pogba to offer that physical reassurance while giving Fabregas the freedom to do his creative work further up the field without excessive defensive responsibility. Young Dutchman Marco van Ginkel may yet alleviate everyone's concerns, yet with limited experience and coming off a season lost to injury, it could be a while before he's at the level required to run Chelsea's midfield week in, week out.