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#3 Antonio Rudiger
Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger is reportedly close to leaving the club. That is pretty anticlimactic given his contributions to Chelsea in 2021. He had become a peripheral figure at the club towards the end of Frank Lampard's reign and was heavily linked with an exit in January 2021.
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But Tuchel's arrival helped Rudiger turn things around in England. Slotting into a three-man defence, the German international brought a lot of passion, vigor and aggressiveness to the side. Rudiger is a tough-tackling defender who also possesses excellent ball-playing abilities.
He is difficult to beat in a foot race and is a thorn in the neck of attackers as he never gives up. Rudiger is also a threat from set-pieces and is also pretty adept at playing some wonderful passes from deep.
He has scored two goals and provided four assists in 23 appearances across all competitions this season for Chelsea. That's pretty impressive for a centre-back who dispenses his defensive duties with aplomb as well.
#2 Mason Mount
Mason Mount has quickly established himself as one of the most creative playmakers in the Premier League. He is a player who remained consistent under Frank Lampard and was able to carry that same form into the Thomas Tuchel era.
Mount showed glimpses of his genius in the 2020-21 season and he played a crucial role in Chelsea's Champions League triumph. Despite his influence, his numbers didn't make for great reading. He scored just nine goals and provided nine assists in 54 appearances for the Blues last term.
But the Englishman has truly turned it up this season. Mount has already scored seven goals and provided four assists in 15 Premier League appearances this term. He is quick, agile, possesses quick feet and showcases great decision making in and around the final third.
Mount will, no doubt, go on to become an extremely important player for both club and country in 2022.
#1 N'Golo Kante
N'Golo Kante was Chelsea's standout performer in the UEFA Champions League last term. The Frenchman was in irrepressible form in the knockout stages of Europe's elite competition. His performances in midfield proved to be the difference on several occasions.
Kante's relentless running and energy helped Chelsea win games against Atletico Madrid, Porto, Real Madrid and Manchester City. Not only was he great at turning over possession but he also excelled at carrying the ball forward and making things happen in the final third.
Kante was named UEFA Midfielder of the Year for his exploits. The 30-year-old is the perfect foil for Jorginho. But injuries have stopped him from featuring regularly for Chelsea this season.
