Chelsea will look to end their Premier League campaign on a positive note when they visit King Palace Stadium to face Leicester City on Sunday. The Blues will be full with confidence after securing their place in the Europa League final. And a win against Leicester could help them finish over Tottenham Hotspur in the league table.
The strenuous midweek win over Eintracht Frankfurt will force Maurizio Sarri to rest a few of his key players. But, we expect the Italian to stick to his trusted 4-3-3 formation.
Predicted 4-3-3 Chelsea lineup vs Leicester City
Defence
Kepa Arrizabalaga is a guaranteed starter in between the sticks this weekend. The Spaniard was excellent in the win over Frankfurt, notably saving two penalties in the shootout.
Key defender Andreas Christensen suffered an injury in midweek. While the severity of the injury is yet to be confirmed, the Dane is unlikely to be risked this weekend. Thus, we expect Cesar Azpilicueta to feature in central defence alongside David Luiz.
Davide Zappacosta makes a strong case for being included in the team after impressing against Frankfurt. He will start in his preferred right-back position, with Azpilicueta operating in central defence. Marcos Alonso will occupy the left-back slot, replacing Emerson.
Midfield
Jorginho will retain his place in the holding midfield role. His composure and anticipation will be crucial as Chelsea look to dominate Leicester City in the middle.
Mateo Kovacic might have to settle for a place on the bench in this one, with Ross Barkley likely to be given a rare start. Ruben Loftus-Cheek, meanwhile, could retain his place in central midfield due to the absence of N’Golo Kante. His physical presence will be crucial against the likes of Youri Tielemans and Wilfred Ndidi this weekend.
Attack
Gonzalo Higuain will lead the Chelsea attack. The Argentine scored a great goal against Watford last weekend and will be keen to maintain his excellent form.
Higuain will be partnered by the wide-duo of Willian and Pedro, who are expected to start over Eden Hazard. However, we could expect the Belgian to make an appearance sometime in the second half, in what could turn out to be his final league game for the Blues.
