You can expect Enzo Maresca to make changes for Chelsea’s upcoming game against Bournemouth.
Chelsea lost to Aston Villa last time out, while fixtures are coming thick and fast. Therefore, Maresca is likely to rotate his team.
Following that loss to the Villans, though, the Blues need a win on Tuesday, so Maresca will probably not go crazy.
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Ahead of the match, The Chelsea Chronicle has predicted Maresca’s starting XI for the game.
Estevao of Chelsea is substituted on for Cole Palmer
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea predicted XI vs Bournemouth
Robert Sanchez showcased his skill in the Villa defeat and remains Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper. He will definitely start on Tuesday.
Maresca is still trying to manage Reece James carefully after all of his injury problems, so Malo Gusto could come in for him in the right-back position after the Chelsea captain played the full 90 minutes against Villa.
After Benoit Badiashile’s costly error, Wesley Fofana is a shoo-in to return to the first XI. Like James, Maresca is also being very cautious with the Frenchman. According to journalist Matt Law, Fofana is one of Maresca’s favourite players at the club.
Trevoh Chalobah should partner Fofana at the centre of defence. He has been Chelsea’s best centre-back this season.
To complete the defence, Marc Cucurella will start in the left-back position. Jorrel Hato has been ruled out of this fixture.
Moises Caicedo has a solid record against Bournemouth and is one of the first names on the team sheet.
With Cole Palmer fit again, Enzo Fernandez will play most games in central midfield, including Tuesday’s.
Further forward, Estevao Willian should come in for Pedro Neto, who could do with a rest after all of the football he has played this season. He also had a very quiet game against Villa.
After being subbed off during the Villa defeat, Palmer is guaranteed to start against Bournemouth. Maresca would have had that in mind when he took him off on Saturday.
Jamie Gittens may get a chance as Maresca tries to rotate as much as he can without weakening the team too much.
Finally, Liam Delap may replace Joao Pedro, who has also played a lot of football this term.
Chelsea’s predicted XI for Bournemouth clash 👀
What changes would you make?
Chelsea's predicted XI for Bournemouth
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
Ultimately, Maresca will make changes for the visit of Bournemouth, but Chelsea should still have enough firepower to win this fixture.
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