Chelsea’s next Premier League game against Arsenal will provide arguably the biggest test of the season for the Blues, and they will be without Wesley Fofana for selection.
Fofana was sent off for Chelsea in their 1-1 draw at Burnley, with it being fair to say that the red card cost the Blues late on.
The Frenchman had established himself as part of Liam Rosenior’s strongest centre-back duo before this game, and the manager will now have to go back to the drawing board when it comes to picking his side for the London derby.
Who starts in place of Wesley Fofana against Arsenal?🤔
Wesley Fofana's replacement after Chelsea red card
Photo by Nigel French/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
Liam Rosenior must play five at the back for Chelsea vs Arsenal
The boss is not afraid to pull out a unique tactic against the Gunners, and we believe he must do the same next weekend – playing five at the back at the Emirates.
There is already a lack of belief from Chelsea fans in their options at centre-back without Levi Colwill, and going in with a back two would not fill anyone with confidence at the back.
FBL-ENG-PR-CHELSEA-BURNLEY
Photo by Ben STANSALL / AFP via Getty Images
Reece James would be the perfect figure to start in the right wing-back role. He is starting to impact the game in the final third more every week.
On the left, it would make sense to start Jorrel Hato in the absence of Marc Cucurella. Malo Gusto looked uncomfortable on his weaker side against Burnley.
A midfield trio of Moises Caicedo, Andrey Santos and Enzo Fernandez would provide the solid platform to win the battle in the middle of the park, which will be fierce due to the presence of Declan Rice.
It’s getting ridiculous now 😡
How can Liam Rosenior stop this?
Wesley Fofana sent off for Chelsea vs Burnley
Photo by Jasper Wax/Getty Images
Who should start at centre-back vs Arsenal?
Trevoh Chalobah is a certainty to keep his place in the starting side, however he will need two players to go alongside him in a back three.
Having players comfortable in the wider areas will be essential, and that is why we are tipping Josh Acheampong to start on the right of a three.
The England U21 international has plenty of experience at right-back, and defending in wide areas is something he should feel comfortable doing.
While there would be temptation to start Mamadou Sarr too, we are naming Benoit Badiashile to finish the defence in order to add a bit more experience to the backline.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox