Chelsea restart their Premier League campaign on Saturday when they take on defending champions Manchester City. It is going to be a vital clash in the context of the title race with the Blues hoping to continue their excellent start to the season that sees them sit at the top of the league table. Man City aren’t far behind either and a win will be enough to help them overtake the reigning European champions.
Predicted Chelsea Lineup Vs Manchester City
Defence
Thomas Tuchel had rested a lot of key players in the midweek game against Aston Villa. He is set to revert those changes with Cesar Azpilicueta set to replace Reece James in the right-sided centre-back role.
Both Trevoh Chalobah and Malang Sarr may also have to make way for Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen as Tuchel returns to his tried and tested back three that will be tasked with the responsibility of putting a stop to Man City’s attacking onslaught.
In goal, Kepa Arrizabalaga produced a heroic performance against Aston Villa in midweek. But he may have to make way for Edouard Mendy as well, as he continues to serve as the number two for the Blues. There is a slight doubt over Mendy’s fitness but we are expecting him to return to full fitness in time.
Midfield
It will be interesting to see whether Tuchel opts for the extra man in midfield knowing Manchester City’s superiority in possession. As such, Mason Mount could be the odd one out, as the German tactician looks to deploy N’Golo Kante, who marked his return to full fitness in style last weekend, scoring in the win over Tottenham Hotspur.
Kante is expected to feature alongside Mateo Kovacic and Jorginho in the three-man Chelsea midfield. They are set to receive additional support from wingbacks Reece James and Marcos Alonso in the second line of press. Mount, though, is a potential alternative for Kovacic, should Tuchel opt for a more attacking approach.
Attack
As for the attack, Romelu Lukaku should return to the side to spearhead the Chelsea frontline. He will be aided by Kai Havertz, who has experience of playing in a secondary striker role during his time at Bayer Leverkusen.
Otherwise, Timo Werner is always an option for Tuchel, although, given his recent struggles in front of goal, he might not be favoured much. Chelsea are hoping to have Christian Pulisic back for this game and the American international might be an exciting option from the bench.
