Predicted Chelsea line-up to face Cardiff City in the Premier League
Premier League returns this weekend and Chelsea would be keen to continue their perfect start to the season. They face Cardiff City at Stamford Bridge in a game which looks straightforward on paper. However, no game in top-flight is easy and Cardiff manager Neil Warnock would want to make sure of that.
The Welsh club gave a goo account of itself against Arsenal, scoring two goals and almost securing a point. Chelsea, on the other hand, oozed class against Bournemouth to make it four wins in four games.
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Cesc Fabregas is still a doubt for the Blues as he recovers from his injury. Apart from that, Sarri would be happy to know that there aren’t any injuries to contend with. So the Italian will have a relatively full strength squad to select his line-up from.
Probable Chelsea XI
Formation: 4-3-3
Manager: Maurizio Sarri
Kepa Arrizabalaga (GK)
The goalkeeper hasn’t been tested by the opposition yet. Maybe Cardiff will put crosses into the box if the opportunity arises to check his aerial prowess.
Cesar Azpilicueta (RB)
The Spaniard generally plays every game for the Blues. Expect him to start in his usual right-back position.
Antonio Rudiger (CB)
The German has improved his overall game since the arrival of Sarri. Maybe the back-four system suits him.
David Luiz (CB)
Luiz has been good on the ball but slack at the back, especially when runners go beyond him. Sarri would want him to improve.
Marcos Alonso (LB)
The Spaniard played for his national team during the break, meaning his progress at Chelsea is being recognised at a higher level. He has adapted to the system change immaculately.
Jorginho (CDM)
The governor-general of Chelsea’s midfield. The Italian is the pass trend-setter in the team, which gets followed all over the pitch by his teammates.
N’Golo Kante (RCM)
The Frenchman is already a legend at the club and his country. His adaptation to a new role as a No.8 has been sensational.
Mateo Kovacic (LCM)
The Real Madrid loanee has seamlessly slotted himself into the team. Fabregas would find it tough to break through this trio of players.
Eden Hazard (LW)
Chelsea’s talisman in the attack and one of the best players in Europe. Cardiff will find themselves in a spot of bother if Hazard fires on the day.
Alvaro Morata (ST)
The Spaniard’s chances at Stamford Bridge may soon run out if he doesn’t start performing better. He needs one or two goals under his belt to kick-start the flow.
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Pedro (RW)
The former Barcelona man seems to be enjoying this style of play under Sarri. He has reveled in the games played so far and should be eager to further stamp his authority.