Chelsea and Manchester City combined XI: Elite hues of blue
Chelsea takes on Manchester City in one of the biggest matches of the season. The Blues will need to beat Pep Guardiola’s Citizens in order to keep their title hopes alive. Struggling with COVID and injuries, Thomas Tuchel and his men have faced a number of obstacles in recent times, including poor form, unscheduled interviews and more.
There is a lot of talent between the Premier League’s two best sides, so ahead of the all-important weekend meeting between the two clubs, here’s a look at the combined XI:
Goalkeeper: Edouard Mendy, Chelsea
Edouard Mendy and Ederson are probably the best goalkeepers in the world at the moment. Mendy just edges Ederson into this list based on the circumstances. Chelsea’s defence has been poor during some points this season, and Mendy has bailed the Blues out numerous times. The club has been struggling with injuries and COVID in a few key defensive positions, which has led to a lot of instability at the back. However, Mendy has been impressive whenever called upon and has pulled off some tremendous saves. The Senegalese keeper averages an amazing 2.7 saves per game in the Premier League, while Ederson averages 1.7. The 29-year-old is away on national duty for the ongoing AFCON tournament and won’t feature for Chelsea in the upcoming game.
Right back: Cesar Azpilicueta, Chelsea
Cesar Azpilicueta has been one of the most consistent football players employed by Chelsea Football Club over the last decade—if not ever. The man bleeds blue and leads by example. While Kyle Walker is one of the best fullbacks in the league, he cannot match the consistency and the impact that Azpilicueta’s presence creates in a team.
Centerback: Thiago Silva, Chelsea
Thiago Silva has been one of the best signings at Stamford Bridge of the Roman Abramovich era. The Brazilian has been an absolute rock in the centre of defence, and his attitude has been exemplary. After the game against Spurs earlier in the week, he stayed back and acknowledged the fans. This small gesture showed the connection he has with the supporters and the club. Silva averages 3.2 clearances per game, which is extremely impressive compared to other defenders.
Centerback: Ruben Dias, Manchester City
Ruben Dias is one of the first names on the teamsheet as he has established himself as one of the most reliable defenders in the world. He won the Premier League Player of the Season in his first year in the league. That in and of itself is a testament to the fact that Dias has the potential to go and become the best defender in the world.
Left back: Ben Chilwell, Chelsea
Ben Chilwell is sadly on the sidelines due to a long-term injury and he will miss the rest of the season. However, he was on fire during the first part of the season, which is why he finds himself on this list. The Englishman was one of the main reasons behind Chelsea’s flourishing system and the Blues have been suffering in his absence.