Chelsea and Arsenal are set to square off in the Premier League on Saturday evening, in what has always historically been a fiercely contested affair.
Maurizio Sarri will take charge of his first London derby, and will certainly learn just how important this match is to players and fans alike.
All his players have now returned from their post-World Cup breaks, whilst transfer rumours have somewhat disappeared following the close of the English transfer window.
Here’s how Chelsea could line up.
1. Goalkeeper & Defenders
Kepa (GK) – Kepa got his first taste of action in a Chelsea shirt in last week’s clash with Huddersfield, and the world’s most expensive goalkeeper will certainly be looking forward to the tie with Arsenal.
Cesar Azpilicueta (RB) – Azpilicueta was given the captain’s armband for the Huddersfield game, showing that Sarri has faith in the Spaniard. He is back in his original position of right back, after playing more centrally under Antonio Conte.
David Luiz (CB) – Luiz has finally been restored to the lineup following Conte’s departure, and enjoyed a full pre-season under Sarri. His abilities with the ball at his feet will certainly appeal to his new manager.
Antonio Rudiger (CB) – Rudiger also boasts impressive passing skills, and performed well against Huddersfield. Andreas Christensen will be knocking on the door, but Rudiger should keep his spot.
Marcos Alonso (LB) – Sarri has shown faith in Alonso by selecting him over Emerson in his first two competitive matches, and there is no reason why that will not continue against Arsenal.
2. Midfielders
Jorginho (DM) – Key to Sarri’s quick-thinking tactics, Jorginho will be one of the first names on the team sheet every week, having been brought to the club as one of Sarri’s favourite players.
N’Golo Kante (CM) – Another easy selection here, Kante is a perfect example of what Sarri wants in his box-to-box midfielder, and will be hoping to continue his strong start to the season.
Ross Barkley (CM) – With Cesc Fabregas unavailable and new signing Mateo Kovacic yet to be involved in a matchday squad, Barkley will most likely continue in midfield. He was a regular in Sarri’s pre-season lineup, and was also given the nod against Huddersfield ahead of Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
3. Forwards
Eden Hazard (LW) – Hazard featured from the bench against Huddersfield, having returned late following Belgium’s deep run in the World Cup. However, he looked in great physical form, and could well be given his first start under Sarri.
Alvaro Morata (ST) – The misfiring striker had a solid game against Huddersfield, despite not making an impact on the score sheet. A positive step forward for the Spaniard, who deserves to remain in the lineup.
Pedro (RW) – With Hazard returning to the lineup, either Willian or Pedro will be relegated to the bench. Pedro has featured for Sarri since the Italian arrived at the club and has been scoring regularly, including against Huddersfield. Expect Sarri to reward Pedro with a place in the lineup.
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