Chelsea will clash heads with Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening, hoping to kick-start their Premier League season with all three points. The Blues will be heading into the contest on the back of an impressive victory over Villarreal in the UEFA Super Cup, whereas Patrick Vieira’s men recorded a 3-1 win against Watford on August 7.
Thomas Tuchel will probably opt for the 3-4-3 formation for the opening match of the campaign.
3-4-3 Chelsea Predicted Line-up Vs Crystal Palace
Defence
Eduardo Mendy is expected to start in between the sticks for the upcoming clash. The Senegalese shot-stopper will be hoping to put up a strong performance and secure a clean sheet on Saturday.
Thiago Silva is expected to start at the heart of Blues’ backline, whereas Antonio Rudiger will feature at the left centre-back spot. Cesar Azpilicueta will fulfil the right centre-back position.
However, their main objective will be to keep Wilfried Zaha quiet throughout the ninety minutes.
Midfield
N’Golo Kante and Jorginho might fulfil the holding midfield positions, with the latter occupying a more central role. The pair would be looking to dominate the midfield proceedings.
Ben Chilwell might start at the left wing-back position, whereas Callum Hudson-Odoi will fill in on the other flank as the right wing-back.
Reece James will have to settle for a place on the bench, but he could be brought on in the latter stages of the game if needed.
Attack
Hakim Ziyech picked up an unfortunate injury during the Super Cup clash against Villarreal, so Chelsea will be without his services on Saturday.
Mason Mount and Kai Havertz will slot into the attacking midfield roles. The duo would be determined to set up some clear cut goal-scoring chances for the front-men.
Timo Werner will lead the line for the hosts against Crystal Palace. The German international would be hoping to find the back of the net when he faces off against the Palace defence this weekend.
Christian Pulisic might come on to make a cameo appearance in the second forty-five minutes.