Chelsea's Predicted XI to Face Manchester City as Maresca Addresses Midfield Woes
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca faces a significant challenge as injuries force him to find innovative solutions for his midfield ahead of a crucial clash against Manchester City at the Etihad.
Original Source
Chelsea Chronicle
Written by
Steve Worrell
24 Jan
8:53
Opinion
The1905.Club Summary
With Romeo Lavia ruled out and Enzo Fernandez racing against time to regain fitness, Maresca is expected to deploy an unconventional lineup. The match is pivotal, as Chelsea aims to maintain their top-four position while fending off the reigning champions.
Key Points
Predicted Starting XI
Goalkeeper:
Robert Sanchez – Despite recent criticism, Maresca has backed the Spaniard, indicating he'll continue as Chelsea's No. 1.
Defenders:
Malo Gusto – Set to operate in a traditional full-back role.
Trevoh Chalobah – Will build on his strong showing against Wolves.
Levi Colwill – Returns from injury to partner Chalobah in central defence.
Reece James – Deployed as a left-back, a position he has performed well in earlier this season.
Midfielders:
Marc Cucurella – Moves into a central midfield role, leveraging his experience of inverting into the midfield.
Moises Caicedo – Anchors the midfield with increased responsibility due to injuries.
Cole Palmer – Positioned in an advanced midfield role, with a point to prove against his former club.
Forwards:
Noni Madueke – Earns a start on the right wing after his recent goal-scoring performance.
Jadon Sancho – Returns to the left wing, eager to make an impact against his former academy team.
Nicolas Jackson – Leads the attack, hoping to rediscover his scoring touch.
Steve, Co-founder of The 1905 Club, created the platform to provide honest, clickbait-free Chelsea FC content. He worked at Stamford Bridge from 2013 to 2016 with a Champions League sponsor. His first Chelsea match was a 1-0 win at Leeds in 2000, and his favourite was the epic 2012 Champions League game against Napoli.
