Chelsea face Hungarian champions MOL Vidi in Thursday’s Europa League meeting, which is expected to be a straightforward victory for Maurizio Sarri’s side.
However, with the Premier League being as demanding and tight as it is – we may see Sarri rotate the starting XI in spectacular fashion.
Here is Chelsea’s potential lineup for the Europa League clash on Thursday evening.
1. Goalkeeper & Defenders
Willy Caballero (GK) – It’s more than likely to see the ex-Manchester City keeper start in this game. Sarri will want to give Kepa a much needed rest for the very long Premier League season ahead.
Davide Zappacosta (RB) – More of a squad rotation player under Sarri, but he has the ability to stop crosses and close down the channels.
Antonio Rudiger (CB) – The centre of defence is an area for debate amongst Chelsea fans, but in a match where changes are inevitable, it seems as though Rudiger should retain his spot.
Gary Cahill (CB) – Now the longest-serving Chelsea player, Cahill has the experience and ability to run the back line, along with the awareness from set pieces to put away headers or rebounds for goals. After not getting much playing time in the league, Cahill will probably get his chance for the Europa League fixture.
Marcos Alonso (LB) – Probably the most difficult position to fill at Chelsea. Alonso made the team of the year sheet last season, and for good reason. One of Chelsea’s better players for the most part of the last campaign – Alonso can put away free kicks and deliver excellent crosses, as well as perform defensive duties every single match.
2. Midfielders
Ross Barkley (AM) – At times he was Everton’s hottest commodity. When moving to Chelsea, he seemed slightly lost and couldn’t really find his place in a bigger club, but Ross has found his feet at the London team. He’s got the ability to deliver at the right moment, and could form a successful partnership with Olivier Giroud if given more play time.
Jorginho (DM) – A newbie at Chelsea, but fans will be excited for this prospect. After already scoring a goal for the Blues in the Premier League, he and the Chelsea faithful will be hoping for another spectacular performance from him on Thursday.
Cesc Fabregas (CM) – Fabregas is a phenomenal player and a midfield dynamo. In stark contrast to Barkley who is a lot more direct, Fabregas thrives from the movement of others and can pick a pass from just about anywhere on the pitch.
3. Forwards
Victor Moses (RW) – A controversial choice for some fans, but Moses has played in various positions already this season. With the ability to defend, track back and his pace on the counter attack, Moses could be invaluable to the starting XI as Vidi are likely to sit back and defend.
Willian (LW) – The Brazil international is arguably Chelsea’s second-best player (after Eden Hazard) this season. The full package when it comes to attacking wingers, expect to see Willian use his blistering speed and footwork, and possibly bag a couple of goals.
Alvaro Morata (ST) – With Giroud being selected in the Premier League more often recently, it is likely that Morata will be placed in Thursday’s team, and perhaps to his benefit. Morata could see this match as a way to get his confidence back and a route for his goal tally to improve.