The Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has suggested that the reason for the drop of form in N’Golo Kante is due to him practicing Ramadan fasting.
N’Golo Kante has been a very important player in the midfield of Chelsea. His performances in the middle of the pitch, as well as his humble nature, has made almost every football fan fall in love with him.
However, in Chelsea’s 3-1 recent defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, Kante was substituted at half time. This was a decision which left football pundits and fans shocked, considering how crucial he is to the midfield of the Blues.
Thomas Tuchel later confirmed he had taken Kante off at half-time for tactical reasons after the midfielder had struggled in the opening 45 minutes of the game. Usually, the midfielder is full of energy and enthusiasm, running to almost every part of the pitch. However, he did not look himself during the all important game against Real Madrid.
The 31 year old French midfielder has been struggling this season. During winter, he struggled with knee and groin injuries, both keeping him out of the field for quite a while. He also tested positive for Covid-19 for a second time in January. All these factors played a part in his recent loss of form.
“One thing is clear that N’golo is a key player because he has outstanding, unique qualities,” Tuchel said in a press conference on Friday.
“He’s a unique player, who gives us something nobody else can. He’s struggling with consistency due to injuries, illness and this is also the reason for our bit of inconsistency. We have missed him for so many matches, now he’s fasting due to his religion and beliefs so maybe another reason. Not for the first time but if for many days you don’t drink or eat it can have an effect.”
“Maybe it’s also part of the explanation we had the feeling he’s not on his highest level if you can compare him against Real Madrid last year. This is nothing to be ashamed of or to feel sorry for. We try to push him because we know what he has when he’s on the pitch.”