The new Premier League season is off to an exciting start as Chelsea prepares to face reigning champions Manchester City in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Chelsea head coach Maresca has selected a strong squad, eager to make a statement on the opening weekend of the campaign.
Despite the absence of Reece James due to suspension, Chelsea has an almost complete squad available for selection. Robert Sanchez takes his place in goal, with summer signing Filip Jorgensen among the substitutes, ready to make an impact if called upon. Malo Gusto has been entrusted with the right-back position, while Wesley Fofana makes his long-awaited return to the Premier League, stepping onto the pitch for the first time in 448 days. He partners Levi Colwill in central defense, and Marc Cucurella takes on the left-back role.
The midfield sees another fresh face, with Romeo Lavia making his first Premier League start for Chelsea. He is joined by Moises Caicedo, forming a dynamic duo in the middle of the park. Enzo Fernandez is expected to take on a more advanced role, leading the team as captain.
In attack, Cole Palmer returns to the fold, ready to prove his worth alongside Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson. This combination of skill and speed could be a key factor in Chelsea’s bid to upset Manchester City’s rhythm.
On the bench, Chelsea boasts a wealth of talent, including summer signings Tosin Adarabioyo, Renato Veiga, and Pedro Neto, all of whom are eager to make their Premier League debut. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Marc Guiu also provide further depth for the Blues, ensuring a strong lineup for any late-game changes.
Chelsea Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Robert Sanchez
- Defenders: Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella
- Midfielders: Romeo Lavia, Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez (C)
- Forwards: Cole Palmer, Christopher Nkunku, Nicolas Jackson
Substitutes: Jorgensen, Tosin, Badiashile, Veiga, Dewsbury-Hall, Mudryk, Neto, Madueke, Guiu
Meanwhile, Manchester City arrives at Stamford Bridge with their star-studded squad. Ederson starts between the posts, and the backline features the likes of Manuel Akanji and Ruben Dias. New signing Josko Gvardiol also gets a starting role, while Mateo Kovacic and Kevin De Bruyne, the latter taking the captain’s armband, will orchestrate the midfield. Up front, the prolific Erling Haaland is expected to lead the City attack, supported by Savinho and Doku.
Manchester City Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Ederson
- Defenders: Lewis, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol
- Midfielders: Kovacic, De Bruyne (C), Bernardo Silva
- Forwards: Doku, Savinho, Erling Haaland
Substitutes: Ortega Moreno, Walker, Stones, Ake, Grealish, Nunes, Foden, O’Reilly, McAtee
As the season opener unfolds, all eyes will be on Chelsea’s revamped lineup and whether Maresca’s new strategies will challenge Manchester City’s dominance. Will Chelsea’s fresh faces rise to the occasion, or will Manchester City continue to reign supreme in their title defense? The stakes are high, and the football world is watching closely!