Chelsea face what promises to be their most challenging test in the Champions League group stage, as they face Atletico Madrid in Spain.
After a thumping 6-0 win against Qarabag in Chelsea’s return to the competition, there was a sense of optimism that the Blues could venture into the latter stages of the competition. However, on Wednesday night, they will face a much sterner test, and it could be argued that they will go into the game against the Spanish giants as underdogs due to the calibre of players and manager that Atletico do possess.
Antonio Conte will have a full strength squad to select from with the exception of Danny Drinkwater, who continues to recover from injury.
These next two games could be pivotal in defining Chelsea’s season, as they face one of the European giants in Atletico Madrid, and then a crucial match on Saturday, against title rivals Manchester City.
Conte will have to choose his starting line-up wisely, keeping in mind both games will have an extremely high intensity, therefore squad rotation to an extent may be crucial in ensuring Chelsea get the best possible outcome from these several days ahead.
Here is how we think Chelsea will lineup on Wednesday.
GK – Thibaut Courtois
He will certainly start against his former club. It is going to be a busy night for the Belgian in goal, and he will definitely have to be at his best for Chelsea to stand a good chance of getting three points.
RWB – Davide Zappacosta
The right wing-back position is one of the most demanding roles in football. This means there needs to be a level of rotation in Conte’s side, and the signing of Zappacosta gives the manager that opportunity, therefore I believe the Italian will get the chance to prove himself against extremely difficult opposition.
CB – Cesar Azpilicueta
The Spaniard has four assists for Alvaro Morata already this season, and his defensive standard is also at such a high level, which means he is for sure going to be starting for the Blues.
CB – David Luiz
His suspension in domestic football almost guarantees him a starting place for this game. Despite his fractured wrist against Arsenal, it is expected he will play on Wednesday.
CB – Gary Cahill
He was rested against Stoke for this game, so it is inevitable he will captain the side in this massive game.
LWB – Marcos Alonso
Despite having something of a nightmare against Stoke, he is currently the most reliable player in this position.
CM – N’Golo Kante
The first name on the team sheet.
CM – Cesc Fabregas
Antonio Conte will want to ensure defensive solidity in this match, and I predict he will play three central midfielders to nullify the threat the the likes of Antoine Griezmann will pose.
CM – Tiemoue Bakayoko
He has been essential in recent weeks, and is certainly an upgrade on Nemanja Matic. His strong powerful runs will be imperative to the side to release pressure off the defence.
LW/RW – Eden Hazard
The little Belgian will have the roaming role, and his link up play with both the midfield and Alvaro Morata will be crucial.
ST – Alvaro Morata
His hat-trick at the weekend was a sign of things to come, and now he is back to full fitness, it is time for him to make his Chelsea Champions League debut.
