The Blues had a disastrous 2022/23 season where they finished 12th in the standings. They will be aiming for a much better performance under new manager Mauricio Pochettino .

Formation: 4-3-3

Predicted Line-up:

Kepa Arrizabalaga has today accepted to join Real Madrid on loan. As a result, new signing Robert Sanchez is expected to start between the sticks at the Bridge.

Reece James is certain to feature at right-back after becoming the permanent captain of the club. He should be accompanied by vice-captain Ben Chilwell on the opposite side.

Thiago Silva is a nailed-on starter at the heart of the defence. With Benoit Badiashile still nursing an injury, Levi Colwill looks set to make his Blues debut alongside the Brazilian star.

In midfield, Enzo Fernandez could start in the number six role with the Blues yet to sign Moises Caicedo or Romeo Lavia . In front of the Argentine, it could be Conor Gallagher and Carney Chukwuemeka .

In attack, Raheem Sterling looks likely to start ahead of Noni Madueke on the right wing as the latter has just returned to training after an injury. Mykhailo Mudryk should be an assured starter on the left wing.

Up front, Nicolas Jackson has the position for himself with Armando Broja not fully fit while Christopher Nkunku is sidelined for five months after a knee surgery earlier this month.

Predicted Chelsea line-up (4-3-3): Sanchez; James, Silva, Colwill, Chilwell; Fernandez, Gallagher, Chukwuemeka; Sterling, Jackson, Mudryk.

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