Chelsea crashed out of the EFL Cup as they faced a defeat of 2-0 at the hands of Newcastle United in the Round of 16. Interestingly, they went into the game just after beating the same side 2-1 in the Premier League. One of the reasons for the turnaround could be the choice of players.
Enzo Maresca didn’t use the full strength of his squad, indicating his idea of not taking the EFL Cup seriously. The Blues are probably more focused on the Premier League as they are preparing to face Manchester United in an away fixture this weekend.
4-2-3-1 Chelsea Predicted Lineup Vs Manchester United
Defence
Filip Jorgensen could’ve done little to restrict Newcastle United. However, Robert Sanchez is set to return between the sticks.
Reece James has settled well since his return and will again own the right-back position. Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana return at the heart of the defence replacing the duo of Tosin Adarabioyo and Benoit Badiashile, who had a disastrous outing this midweek. Left-back Malo Gusto finds himself in the starting XI in place of Marc Cucurella.
Midfield
Enzo Fernandez faced heavy criticism for his poor show and is likely to face the heat. Romeo Lavia is the front-runner to take his spot in the middle of the park and form a duo with Moises Caicedo. It means both Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Renato Veiga will be sent to the bench.
Attack
Enzo Maresca should alter the entire attacking unit for this tie. As Jadon Sancho is ineligible to play against his former side Manchester United, Pedro Neto is likely to operate on the right wing. Cole Palmer as usual takes his middle spot along with Noni Madueke playing on the right flank.
Nicolas Jackson also marks his return to the side as the striker.
