The Premier League season is upon us. Chelsea starts the season with a trip to Merseyside to face former manager and Blues legend, Frank Lampard, and his Everton side. The west London club has secured the signing of Brighton and Hove Albion’s reigning Player of the Year, Marc Cucurella, in the last few hours, which provides a huge boost ahead of the trip. The fifth signing of this transfer window will be able to play against the Toffees if selected. Everton, meanwhile, narrowly escaped relegation last season, finishing in 16th position. Both sides will be looking for a fast start this time around as they clash on matchday one.
Let’s take a look at how the Chelsea team can line-up on Saturday at Goodison Park:
Edouard Mendy (No. 16) Goalkeeper, Senegal
The Senegalese international remains Chelsea’s first choice between the sticks. Edouard Mendy kept a total of 23 clean sheets in 49 matches in all competitions during the 2021/22 season, conceding only 40 goals in that time. The Blues’ second choice goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga, has been linked to a move away from Stamford Bridge, so that makes this choice all the more obvious. Chelsea has also confirmed a deal for 18-year-old goalkeeper, Gabriel “Gaga” Slonina, who plays for Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire. Slonina will join the Blues on January 1st, when he can hopefully learn under one of the best goalkeepers in world football.
Cesar Azpilicueta (No. 28) Right centerback, Spain
The Spaniard is eager to end his Chelsea career on a high over the next two seasons following his reworked, new two-year deal. The club captain scored a total of three goals in 47 appearances in all competitions last season. His presence on and off the pitch is key to Thomas Tuchel and the rest of the team. Cesar Azpilicueta might not play a lot of matches this season, but his leadership will be very much needed at difficult times off the pitch.
Thiago Silva (No. 6) Centerback, Brazil
The Rolls Royce, the Benjamin Button of Football, Thiago Silva. He is a superb player and leader for the Blues, and Tuchel is lucky to have him back for another season. Silva scored a total of three goals in 48 matches in all competitions last year. The Brazilian is very keen to play alongside summer signing Kalidou Koulibaly. He has outlined his aspirations for the upcoming season believing Chelsea can challenge—and even win—the Premier League this year.
Kalidou Koulibaly (No. 26) Left centerback, Senegal
The Blues’ new No. 26, five years after Chelsea icon John Terry left the club. The Senegalese international had a touching moment with the Blues legend before signing with Chelsea, asking if he can wear the number so special to Terry, seeing as he wore the same number during his time in Naples. Koulibaly scored three and assisted three times in 34 appearances for Napoli during the course of the 2021/22 season, so he will look to replace the offensive contributions of his predecessor, Antonio Rudiger. The No. 26 will bring so much more to Chelsea’s defensive play and he will be a big threat from set pieces too.