Chelsea’s trip to Manchester City in the Premier League is shaping up as a dramatic and challenging clash for the Blues, coming just days after the surprise departure of head coach Enzo Maresca. Interim boss Calum McFarlane will lead Chelsea at the Etihad, attempting to steady a squad in flux against one of the league’s most consistent sides. �
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🔵 Team News & Injuries – Chelsea
Chelsea arrive with multiple fitness concerns and suspensions that could significantly affect their XI. Key defenders and midfielders remain unavailable as they continue with long-term rehab programmes, including Trevoh Chalobah, Ben Chilwell, Carney Chukwuemeka, Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia and Christopher Nkunku. �
Chelsea FC
— Marc Cucurella is back in training but still doubtful for selection, potentially forcing McFarlane to adjust his defensive shape. �
— Moisés Caicedo could miss out due to suspension for picking up five yellow cards. �
SI
Opta Analyst
The Blues’ recent form has been patchy, and without a settled leadership structure, they face an uphill task against a City side that thrives on consistency and tactical clarity. �
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🔵 Predicted Chelsea XI
With injuries and suspensions biting, a likely Chelsea XI could be:
4-2-3-1:
Petrovic; Gusto, Disasi, Colwill, Chilwell (if fit) or alternative left-back; Caicedo (if available) / defensive mid pairing; Fernandez; Gallagher; Palmer; Sterling; Jackson. �
Manchester City FC
Bench options may include Chalobah, Gilchrist, Casadei, and Mudryk if tactical tweaks are needed. �
Manchester City FC
🟢 Team News – Manchester City
Manchester City enter the game with a stronger and deeper squad, although they too have selection questions:
— Manuel Akanji, Jeremy Doku, and Julián Álvarez are poised to start, returning after involvement in mid-week European action. �
— Jack Grealish is out of the squad with a muscular injury, and Josko Gvardiol continues his recovery from an ankle problem. �
— Midfield maestro Rodri is expected to feature despite a slight fitness management concern, offering crucial stability. �
Manchester City FC
Manchester City FC
SI
🔴 Predicted Man City XI
City will likely field a potent attack with:
Ederson; Walker, Akanji, Dias, Ake; Rodri, De Bruyne; Foden, Doku, Alvarez; Haaland leading the line. �
Manchester City FC
📊 Match Outlook
Manchester City are unbeaten in their last eight Premier League meetings with Chelsea, showcasing a dominant recent record and strong home form. Chelsea’s turmoil — both managerial and injury-related — could further tilt the balance toward the hosts. �
Opta Analyst +1
In summary, Chelsea’s predicted XI faces significant squad disruptions, while City have the continuity and depth to press their advantage. Expect a tactical battle where experience and fitness depth may prove decisive.
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