Chelsea begin their challenge of retaining the Premier League crown in front of their own fans at Stamford Bridge, welcoming Garry Monk’s Swansea City.
This game will be a chance for Mourinho’s side to put their terrible form in pre-season behind them, where they failed to win a game in 90 minutes. Arsene Wenger also finally got one over Mourinho as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s goal gave the Gunners victory in the Community Shield at Wembley.
In their own pre-season, the Swans drew four out of their five fixtures but have brought in five signings along the way which include Eder, Frank Tabanou and Andre Ayew.
In comparison, Chelsea’s summer has been relatively quiet. Two notable faces have made the switch to Stamford Bridge, as Asmir Begovic and Radamel Falcao have joined the Blues.
In 23 years, Chelsea have never lost on the opening day of the season, and Mourinho will be hoping to keep this run going, in what should be three points for the champions.
Team News:
Mourinho is still sweating over the fitness of Diego Costa. The Spaniard missed the Community Shield defeat because of a hamstring problem which has consistently caused him fitness issues.
Both Falcao and Loic Remy are waiting in the wings, with both strikers looking to get the nod if Costa isn’t available. Apart from that, the Blues have no other injury issues.
For Swansea, Bafetimbi Gomis is being troubled by a hamstring injury himself, but the French international featured in their final pre-season game and had no reaction.
Ghanaian forward Andre Ayew is awaiting his Premier League debut, which should happen in this encounter. But for fellow signings Kristoffer Nordfeldt, Tabanou and Eder, this game will probably start from the bench.
Stats:
On the opening day of the season, Chelsea have won the most games (15), scored the most goals (48) and won the most points (50).
Last season, Swansea won three out of their three opening fixtures and were one of two clubs that won all their games that were played in August, (with Chelsea).
Swansea’s last, and ever, league win at Stamford Bridge (in 13 attempts!) came in November 1925, winning 3-1.
Writer’s Prediction:
Chelsea 2-0 Swansea.
