Chelsea host Barcelona at Stamford Bridge tomorrow at 8pm local time on matchday five of the UEFA Champions League as they look to remain unbeaten for the fourth straight match in the competition following an opening day defeat to Bayern Munich.
After beating Burnley with a hard-fought success last weekend, the Blues have had just two days to prepare for the match, but given it is their biggest European Cup tie at home so far this year, they will be motivated to take all the points on offer.
That said, here’s how Enzo Maresca’s men could line up for the clash.
Goalkeeper – David Raya is expected to keep his place between the sticks.
Defenders – Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah played together against Burnley and kept a clean sheet, and with Chelsea’s injury woes at the back the duo will likely be trusted as centre-backs.
Reece James and Marc Cucurella, meanwhile, could start at right and left back respectively.
Caicedo in midfield, Garnacho on the left
Midfielders – Moises Caicedo was rested against Burnley this weekend but is expected to return to the team for the Barcelona encounter where he could replace Andrey Santos. Enzo Fernandez could team up with the Ecuadorian in the double twist. And although Cole Palmer has returned to training, Joao Pedro could still play as an attacking midfielder in this match.
Pedro Neto is in fine form and could also be in the starting XI on the right flank, while Jamie Gittens may return to the bench to make way for £40m summer signing Alejandro Garnacho.
Come on – Liam Delap is expected to take charge at Chelsea ahead of Marc Guiu, who could come off the bench at some point for an appearance against his former side tomorrow.
This is what the Chelsea team might look like on paper.
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