Chelsea at Charlotte FC predicted XI: Does Colwill start in 3-4-3?
Hakim Ziyech (No. 22) Right winger, Morocco
Since Hakim Ziyech parted ways with his agent, every rumor about Ziyech negotiating a move to AC Milan has dried up. Reports have even circulated that the Moroccan is not in Tuchel’s plans. This doesn’t seem believable, as Chelsea would be short by one in the right winger department if it allows the former Ajax man to leave. Regardless of the formation Chelsea plays, it’ll need either a right attacking midfielder or a right winger. If it’s right wing, Ziyech is near the top of the pecking order. The Moroccan’s numbers last season compared to his minutes indicate a player who can be extremely crucial for the team if given the chances.
Timo Werner (No. 11) Center forward, Germany
Timo Werner once again showed his excellent positioning as he got on the end of a brilliant move started by Jorginho. Unfortunately, Werner’s well-placed first time shot was blocked his teammate Michy Batshuayi. The Germany No. 9 scored the rebound though. With Romelu Lukaku gone and Armando Broja potentially going to West Ham United, Werner may find himself competing for a role at center forward for Tuchel’s Blues.
Raheem Sterling (No. 7) Left winger, England
Raheem Sterling was one of the players that didn’t play a single minute on the pitch against Club America. He’s also a key player for Chelsea, and that means it will not be too long until Tuchel starts trying to integrate the England international. The Blues’ fans will be excited to see Sterling play, but you cannot help but wonder how long that excitement will be there if things don’t go well for the former Manchester City star.
Chelsea’s forwards against Club America were all subpar. The only case can be made for Ziyech, who created a couple of good chances, including the superb cross which Silva headed goalward, but it which was saved brilliantly by Guillermo Ochoa. Ziyech also took the freekick that nearly caught Ochoa off-guard. Sterling needs to start playing, mainly because he needs to start building some chemistry with his fellow forwards. Sterling had a lot of chemistry with Man City’s forward and midfielders, and if he’s going to even come close to producing the same output, he needs that chemistry with the Blues too.
Who would you like to see in the starting XI? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter!