Chelsea will play hosts to BATE Borisov at Stamford Bridge on Thursday hoping to continue their 100% winning record in the UEFA Europa League. The Pensioners have already won their first two group stage matches against PAOK and Videoton, both with a 1-0 scoreline, and would come into this contest full of confidence as they look to stretch their incredible unbeaten run across all competitions.
Maurizio Sarri could line up his team in a 4-3-3 formation and name some of the club’s fringe players in his first-team.
4-3-3 Chelsea Predicted Lineup To Face BATE
Defence
Kepa Arrizabalaga will start in goal for Sarri’s team for this UEFA Europa League encounter against BATE Borisov. The Spanish keeper has been in fine form of late and will look to impress in front of the Chelsea faithful on Thursday night.
The Pensioners boss could opt to start with Andreas Christensen and Gary Cahill in central defence to hand both Antonio Rudiger and David Luiz some time off as they focus on the league clash at Burnley this weekend. Davide Zappacosta could start at right-back while Emerson Palmieri looks to put on a shift on the left side of the Chelsea backline.
The Blues defence are yet to concede a goal in the UEFA Europa League this season which should give them enough confidence to earn another clean sheet at Stamford Bridge on Thursday.
Midfield
Cesc Fabregas could be brought back to the Pensioners midfield after he did not take part in last weekend’s league clash versus Manchester United. Both Mateo Kovacic and Ruben Loftus-Cheek might accompany the Spanish midfielder at the middle of the park. The trio would be expected to retain possession well so that Sarri’s side can establish their dominance during the game.
Attack
The duo of Willian and Pedro have both been impressive at times this season. However, they have lacked consistency over the past few weeks, so this home game against BATE would serve as an excellent chance for them to get some of their early season form back on Thursday night. Alvaro Morata is expected to lead the lines for the West London outfit up top.
Both Olivier Giroud and Eden Hazard might be named on the bench for this European clash.
