Enzo Maresca’s Potential Line-Up for Chelsea vs. Leicester City
Enzo Maresca is set to face his former team on Saturday afternoon as Chelsea visit Leicester City, marking the first encounter since his appointment as the Blues’ head coach.
The 44-year-old took over at Stamford Bridge during the summer following his Championship-winning campaign with the Foxes.
Despite introducing a sophisticated playing philosophy to a youthful Chelsea squad, Maresca has guided the team to an impressive third place as the season approaches its final international break.
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This clash with Leicester is pivotal for maintaining Chelsea’s strong start. It will also be their first match this season against a newly-promoted side, a category of games they must win to stay competitive in the league.
As Chelsea gear up for a crucial clash against Leicester City, Enzo Maresca faces decisions on key positions due to injuries and player availability. Here’s a breakdown of the possible line-up and tactical considerations:
Goalkeeper
- Robert Sanchez is expected to continue as Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper, with Filip Jorgensen providing backup.
Defenders
- Right-back: Reece James could return to the starting XI after working intensively during the international break. Malo Gusto, who withdrew from the France U21 squad with a knock, remains a doubt.
- Centre-backs: Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill look likely to continue their promising partnership at the heart of Chelsea’s defense.
- Left-back: Marc Cucurella may start, with a tactical tweak that sees him push into midfield in attacking transitions.
Midfield
- Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez are expected to form the midfield duo, replacing the injured Romeo Lavia. Both players will return from international duty midweek, and their readiness might be a factor in Maresca’s final decision.
Attack
- Right wing: Noni Madueke should retain his spot despite inconsistent club form, bolstered by standout performances for England U21s.
- Central attacking midfield: Cole Palmer, in red-hot form, will likely continue as Chelsea’s creative hub.
- Left wing: Pedro Neto might start, offering a dynamic attacking threat down the flank.
- Striker: Nicolas Jackson is expected to lead the line, with a strong bench including Christopher Nkunku, Joao Felix, Jadon Sancho, and Mykhailo Mudryk providing firepower if needed.
Predicted Chelsea XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper: Sanchez
Defenders: James, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella
Midfield: Caicedo, Fernandez
Attack: Madueke, Palmer, Neto
Striker: Jackson
This match against Leicester is crucial for Chelsea’s title aspirations, especially as it marks their first test against a newly-promoted side this season. Maresca’s return to the King Power adds an emotional dimension, and he’ll look to maintain the Blues’ momentum in their push for top honors.
Enzo Maresca’s Potential Line-Up for Chelsea vs. Leicester City
