The Blues had a disappointing 2023/24 season where they finished sixth despite a winning streak towards the end.

They now face a huge test of their top-four credentials against Pep Guardiola 's side in the season opener at Stamford Bridge.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Predicted Line-up:

Robert Sanchez is likely to continue in goal for the west London giants despite the arrival of Filip Jorgensen from Villarreal earlier this summer.

Malo Gusto and Marc Cucurella should be nailed-on starters from the right and left-back positions. Reece James is presently injured and suspended while Ben Chilwell has been deemed surplus to requirements.

Manager Enzo Maresca has multiple central defensive options at his disposal and he may choose a right and left-footed combination. We fancy Wesley Fofana to partner Levi Colwill against City.

Romeo Lavia had a fine pre-season from the holding midfield role and should get the nod over Moises Caicedo . He is likely to be partnered by Enzo Fernandez , who should captain the side in James' absence.

Further forward, Cole Palmer looks set to start from the right wing with Christopher Nkunku in the number 10 role. Noni Madueke is likely to start on the bench alongside new summer signing Pedro Neto .

Raheem Sterling and Mykhailo Mudryk have struggled for consistency on the left wing. Maresca could go with the experience of Sterling who has scored against his former club in the past as well.

Nicolas Jackson was not at his best against Inter Milan last weekend, but he is currently the best option at the club's disposal. Marc Guiu could provide the back-up from the bench if required.

Predicted Chelsea line-up (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella; Lavia, Fernandez; Palmer, Nkunku, Sterling; Jackson.

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