Chelsea might have been lucky to grab a ‘top four’ league finish despite losing to Aston Villa in the final gameweek, however, their superiority over Manchester City in recent outings makes the all-English Champions League final an intriguing watch. Pep Guardiola is desperate to conquer Europe after reclaiming the Premier League glory, whereas the Blues are more determined than ever to clinch the silverware having lost the FA Cup final to Leicester City a couple of weeks ago.
Thomas Tuchel’s arrival has certainly uplifted the spirit within the Chelsea camp, but the Skyblues might prove to be third time lucky against the German. Both sides have flexed their financial muscle-power over the past decade and the Saturday night encounter would see two exciting opponents clashing heads at the Estádio do Dragão to attain the epitome of success.
Manchester City Vs Chelsea Tactical Preview
Talking Tactics
Manchester City
Guardiola has plenty of options across the pitch which allowed the Spaniard to experiment with formations all season. Yet he should opt for a 4-3-3, a stable set-up that brought them numerous success over the years. Their relentless passing, quick transitions and attacking display would keep the West Londoners on their toes for the majority of the fixture.
Chelsea
In spite of three defeats in the last four games, Tuchel must not alter his usual 3-4-2-1 set-up that helped him restore stability in Chelsea defence. They were conceding way too many goals during Frank Lampard’s tenure, and the resilience at the back might frustrate the Citizens once more in this massive contest.
Team News
Manchester City
The Skyblues do not have any injury concern with Ilkay Gundogan back to full fitness despite failing to make it to the starting XI versus Everton due to a knock endured against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Predicted Lineup: Ederson; Walker, Stones, Dias, Zinchenko; De Bruyne, Fernandinho, Gundogan; Mahrez, Sterling, Jesus
Chelsea
Chelsea, too, do not have any injury related absentees heading into this game. They have rather received a double boost with both Edouard Mendy and N’Golo Kante back in team training recovering from their respective problems.
Predicted Lineup: Mendy; Azpilicueta, Silva, Rudiger; James, Kante, Jorginho, Chilwell; Ziyech, Mount; Werner
Key Men
Manchester City
The star-studded Citizens would rely on the majestic Kevin De Bruyne to drive the show from his free midfield role. Raheem Sterling’s pace, as well as tricky runs, might trouble Cesar Azpilicueta down the right and the likes of Sergio Aguero, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva and Ferran Torres would be equally menacing even if they get deployed as ‘super subs’.
Chelsea
Mason Mount has been exquisite in the attacking third and his skills must be at full display for his side in the final. Timo Werner has struggled high up the pitch, however, his pace and poaching traits might make the difference unless the German wastes his chances. Antonio Rudiger has been headstrong in deep defence, also the class and composure of Kante might frustrate Man City in the middle of the park.
Odds
The bookies have put Manchester City at 17/20 to emerge as the winners, whereas the Blues have been backed at 7/2 to script a triumph.
