A lot of the talk this morning has been about Xabi Alonso closing in on a move to Chelsea. And there is no doubt that would be a positive. But let’s not forget that the Blues are also playing in an FA Cup final against Manchester City.
This is a game that could have major long-term implications as well, and might not be just another chance to win silverware. Chelsea’s chances of making the Champions League are as good as over. If they win the FA Cup, they will at least qualify for the Europa League. Of course, that is easier said than done against a Man City team that has made winning a second habit under Pep Guardiola over the past decade.
Chelsea vs Manchester City FA Cup final live updates
23′ Chelsea make a mess trying to play out from the back and it breaks to Erling Haaland in the box. Luckily, he misses.
20′ Chelsea’s first meaningful attack. Corner.
14′ Some good moments for Chelsea, a tight offside call when Joao Pedro was through behind the defence, but mostly, it is still Manchester City on the front foot.
10′ Manchester City starting to dominate.
7′ Chelsea allow Semenyo too much time and space in the box. Thankfully, nothing materialises from it. 0-0
3′ Brilliant pass from Colwill to break the lines but Chelsea can’t make the most of it.
1′ We are underway at Wembley. Manchester City have the early possession of the ball.
The line-ups for the game have been announced and we got it spot on with our predicted XI. Robert Sanchez has returned in goal. Then there is a three man backline of Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill and Jorrel Hato. Malo Gusto and Marc Cucurella are playing as the two wing-backs on the day.
Reece James makes his first start since returning from injury and he will be playing in midfield alongside Moises Caicedo.
Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez have started just behind Joao Pedro. One would imagine that one of those three will have to get on the scoresheet today if Chelsea are to have any hope of winning the FA Cup final. Of course, we would like to be proven wrong.
Sourav Mahanty
Sourav Mahanty has covered teams like Chelsea, Celtic, Real Madrid, Manchester United, PSG and more over a career that has now lasted a decade. His work has been featured on Sports Illustrated, Athlon Sports, SB Nation, FanSided, The Sportster and aggregated through Bleacher Report and NewsNow. Outside of football, he is also interested in basketball, cricket and professional wrestling.
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