Predicted Chelsea line-up to face BATE Borisov in Europa League
Chelsea would be aiming to clinch the knockout berth in the Europa League as early as in matchday four when they meet BATE Borisov in Belarus this Thursday. Maurizio Sarri’s men are yet to lose a game this season (barring the Community Shield).
They have won all the three group games in this competition so far and must aim to wrap up the proceedings when they visit Belarus this week. However, BATE at home are not easy opponents and it won’t be straightforward for the Blues.
Team News
Eden Hazard came off the bench to impact the game against Crystal Palace. He might not be risked with a big game against Everton coming up. Olivier Giroud is in doubt for this match.
Predicted Chelsea XI
Formation – 4-3-3
Manager – Maurizio Sarri
Kepa Arrizabalaga (GK)
The Spaniard starts the league and Europa League games. Expect him to continue that trend on Thursday.
Davide Zappacosta (RB)
Zappacosta is the second-choice right-back behind Cesar Azpilicueta. The Italian would get these games to impress the manager.
Gary Cahill (CB)
The experienced Cahill would be aiming to perform better and get in the limelight of ever-demanding Maurizio Sarri.
Andreas Christensen (CB)
The Dane has struggled to get much game this season, apart from cup games. He should start this game ahead of David Luiz.
Emerson (LB)
Emerson is second-choice to Marcos Alonso at left-back, hence, he should do more to force the hands of the manager.
Cesc Fabregas (CDM)
The Spaniard is expected to fill-in at defensive midfield, with Jorginho most probably getting a rest.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek (LCM)
The youngster scored a hat-trick when these two met at Stamford Bridge two weeks back. He would be hoping for more of the same.
Mateo Kovacic (RCM)
Came off the bench against Palace, therefore, he is expected to take full part in this game.
Willian (LW)
Willian has done a good job thus far under Sarri. He is expected to start on the left wing.
Alvaro Morata (ST)
With Giroud still a doubt as per current updates, we may see in-form striker Morata leading the line.
Read More: Chelsea should hold onto this £27million star amidst interest from Italy – Agree?
Pedro (RW)
The Spaniard completes the playing eleven by starting on the right wing.
