Chelsea Predicted XI and Injury Concerns Ahead of Man City Showdown

Chelsea caretaker manager, Frank Lampard faces a selection headache ahead of the crucial Premier League encounter against title contenders Manchester City on Sunday.

Injury concerns continue to plague the Blues, with key players ruled out or doubtful for the match. Lampard will need to carefully manage his squad and devise a tactical approach to counter City’s attacking prowess.

Let’s take a look at predicted lineup for Chelsea and provide updates on the team’s injury situation, highlighting the challenges they face in this important fixture.

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Injury Woes for Chelsea:

Lampard confirmed that Benoit Badiashile will be unavailable for the clash with Manchester City due to a groin injury.

Badiashile’s absence compounds the team’s existing injury concerns, with N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic potentially out for the remainder of the season.

These setbacks have also disrupted Carney Chukwuemeka’s plans to join England’s Under-20s World Cup squad.

Additionally, left-backs Ben Chilwell and Marc Cucurella remain sidelined, and Mason Mount is expected to miss out despite returning to training.

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Reece James and Kalidou Koulibaly complete the lengthy list of absentees for Lampard.

Possible Lineup and Tactical Approach:

Given the circumstances, Lampard may opt for a high-energy and defensive 3-5-2 formation to combat the threat posed by Manchester City.

This tactical shift would deviate from the more expansive back-four system that has recently yielded positive results for the Blues, including an upturn in goal-scoring form.

Kepa Arrizabalga, who was dropped in the previous match, could make a return to the starting lineup as the goalkeeper behind a solid back three comprising Trevoh Chalobah, Thiago Silva, and Wesley Fofana.

On the flanks, Cesar Azpilicueta is likely to be deployed as the right wing-back, with talented youngster Lewis Hall on the opposite side.

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In midfield, Enzo Fernandez is expected to join Conor Gallagher and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, providing the necessary support and solidity in the middle of the park.

The attacking duo of Kai Havertz and Raheem Sterling will lead the line for Chelsea, aiming to exploit any opportunities against Manchester City’s defense.

The team’s injury concerns, including the absence of key players, have undoubtedly affected their preparations.

However, Lampard’s tactical acumen and the resilience of the remaining squad members will be crucial in their bid to secure a positive result against the title contenders.

The predicted lineup, featuring a defensive 3-5-2 shape, aims to counter Manchester City’s attacking threat while maintaining defensive solidity. Chelsea will need to deliver a disciplined and spirited performance to stand a chance against Pep Guardiola’s formidable side.

Predicted Chelsea XI: Kepa; Chalobah, Thiago Silva, W Fofana; Azpilicueta, Loftus-Cheek, Enzo, Gallagher, Hall; Sterling, Havertz