Chelsea are due to face Newcastle very soon, and Enzo Maresca has named his starting XI.
Chelsea are looking to break a four-year winless streak at St. James’ Park today, in what’s sure to be an entertaining 12:30 kickoff.
The links between Maresca and Man City have dominated the discourse in and around Stamford Bridge this week. In his pre-match press conference, Maresca shut down the rumours as speculation.
A trip north to face the Magpies is all he and his players will be thinking about.
Maresca ‘absolutely’ committed to Chelsea 👀
Enzo maresca quote
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
What’s more likely?
Chelsea sack Maresca
Maresca decides to leave
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Chelsea starting XI to take on Newcastle
Eddie Howe’s side are one of the more physically imposing in the Premier League. Maresca will have factored that into his decision, especially who to pick for the midfield. Reece James and Moises Caicedo will do a job.
Most fans should be happy with these selections. Many of these players are fresh after a rest midweek.
Confirmed XI to take on Newcastle 💪
Initial thoughts, Chelsea fans?
Confirmed XI
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Cole Palmer looked much better against Everton, but this will be a different level of challenge
He will be tasked with opening up a stubborn Newcastle defence with direct, pacey wingers to either side.
An important three points up for grabs
Chelsea, for all the criticism, are fourth in the table after 16 games. They will want to keep their top-four status going into the new year.
There are four teams just two points behind the Blues, so a loss could see them plummet to eighth. That’s how tight things are currently.
A win is always the expectation for a club like Chelsea, but coming out on top at a ground that has been so problematic in recent seasons would be huge — not just for the here and now, but for the season as a whole.
Let’s hope this starting XI Maresca has picked can make it happen.
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