Chelsea’s busy summer transfer window has seen them make multiple signings in their bid to challenge for a top-four spot in the Premier League. With the arrival of Pedro Neto from Wolves for £54m, the club has made a total of 11 signings since June 14, spending a staggering £185m. This influx of new talent has boosted their squad to over 50 senior players, creating a selection headache for manager Enzo Maresca.
In contrast, defending champions Manchester City have made only one major signing so far – Brazilian winger Savinho. This means that City’s starting lineup for their opening match against Chelsea is relatively easier to predict, while Chelsea’s lineup remains uncertain.
BBC Sport football news reporter Nizaar Kinsella, who closely follows Chelsea, has put together his predicted starting XI for the match. But now it’s your turn to choose your own Chelsea XI. Who would you pick to start the season?
Making such a selection may not be an easy task, considering the plethora of talent at Chelsea’s disposal. However, it also presents an exciting opportunity for the club to showcase their depth and versatility. The 4-3-3 formation seems to be the preferred choice for many, as it allows for a balance between attack and defense.
In defense, the options are plentiful. The signing of Neto provides a strong attacking threat on the wing, while the likes of Antonio Rudiger, Thiago Silva, and Cesar Azpilicueta offer solid defensive stability. In midfield, the combination of N’Golo Kante, Jorginho, and Mason Mount could provide the perfect balance of creativity and defensive cover.
The attacking trio is where it gets interesting. With the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Kai Havertz, Timo Werner, Christian Pulisic, and Hakim Ziyech all vying for a starting spot, the competition is fierce. Lukaku’s return to Chelsea has created a buzz among fans, and his physical presence upfront could be a game-changer. However, Werner’s pace and Havertz’s technical ability cannot be disregarded.
Ultimately, the choice of the starting XI will depend on Maresca’s preferred style of play and the specific tactics he wants to employ against Manchester City. The depth of Chelsea’s squad allows for rotation and tactical flexibility throughout the season, which could prove crucial in their pursuit of a top-four finish.
As the season kicks off, Chelsea fans eagerly await the announcement of the starting lineup. The club’s ambitious transfer activity has raised expectations, and it will be fascinating to see how these new signings gel with the existing squad. The battle for a spot in the top four is sure to be fiercely contested, and Chelsea’s selection dilemmas highlight the strength and depth they possess.