Chelsea XI vs Manchester City – Predicted lineup and team news

TL;DR

Chelsea faces Manchester City today, looking to improve their league form after a recent 7-0 FA Cup victory. The Blues haven't won against City in the Premier League since May 2021 and seek their first home win since January.

Chelsea XI vs Manchester City – Predicted lineup and team news

Chelsea host title chasing Manchester City today, aiming to end a recent dismal run of league form.

The Blues have moved closer to the European spots following Arsenal’s midweek success. Manager Liam Rosenior oversaw a morale-boosting 7–0 win in the FA Cup last weekend. However, Chelsea haven’t beaten Manchester City in the Premier League since May 2021. They now search for their first top-flight victory at Stamford Bridge since January.

Chelsea team news

Chelsea host the in-form City with a squad significantly weakened by injuries and disciplinary issues. Liam Rosenior must find a way to stop a rampant City attack without three primary defenders.

Reece James, Trevoh Chalobah, and Levi Colwill all remain in the treatment room. This leaves Wesley Fofana and Tosin Adarabioyo to anchor a vulnerable backline.

The absence of Enzo Fernández further complicates matters in central midfield. The Argentine is serving a club-imposed ban following recent conduct during the international break.

Notably, Fernández has broken more defensive lines with passes than any other player this season. Andrey Santos is likely to step in alongside Moisés Caicedo to provide defensive stability.

In attack, Cole Palmer will look to haunt his former club from a central role. Pedro is expected to lead the line as the Blues aim to score for the first time in three league games. They haven’t beaten City in the Premier League since May 2021.