Chelsea Predicted XI vs Brighton: 3-4-2-1 to start win streak?
Hakim Ziyech (No. 22) Right wingback, Morocco
Ziyech did not have a good game against Manchester City. He had come off a good run of form in the cup games leading up to this. He created four chances, including two big chances against Tottenham Hotspur in the EFL Cup semifinal. It is worth mentioning, and cannot be overemphasized, that Tuchel pushed him to left wing, which messed up the Moroccan’s passing angles and generally made him much less effective. That said, he could have done better with the positions he got himself into.
Jorginho (No. 5) Central midfielder, Italy
Jorginho sat out the match against Manchester City and while Chelsea didn’t have control in midfield, it’s difficult to make the case that Jorginho’s presence would have changed anything. That said, he’s a key figure in how Chelsea play. His composure and tenacity at the base of midfield helps in calming everyone around him.
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Mateo Kovacic (No. 8) Central midfielder, Croatia
Kovacic led the Manchester City game with a record high 43 pressures. That has to be the highest number of pressures of anyone in any league game ever. He also led in some key passing metrics and ball-carrying statistics. Despite playing 90 minutes against Manchester City, he’s still likely to start this game because Chelsea needs his skillset. Chelsea really needs to start a winning streak now.
Marcos Alonso (No. 3) Left wingback, Spain
The earlier Chelsea gets in a left wing back, the earlier Alonso can get some much needed rest. Chelsea is said to be interested in recalling Emerson from Olympique Lyonnais. Lyon are reluctant to let him go, and it would not be out of place to assume that Emerson probably doesn’t want to return either. Lucas Digne would have been a perfect buy, however Chelsea and Everton could not come to an agreement. Alonso is one Chelsea’s only fit wingbacks and he needs a rest, however he can’t get it here.