Chelsea predicted XI vs Man City: Can it get worse with another 4-3-3?

Chelsea fans have once again reached that point where draws against Nottingham Forest are expected and some other fans are rationalizing why Blues fans should not expect wins against teams in the bottom third of the league table. The narrative that all the current players aren’t fit for purpose is one that you may find difficult to get behind, especially when you realize that, per Capology, Chelsea has a higher wage bill than Manchester City and Liverpool. Whether you believe Capology or not, one thing is clear: the Blues’ wage bill is too high for a team that is rightly ranked 8th in the table.

CFC welcome Pep Guardiola’s men to Stamford Bridge in a game no one expects the Blues to get anything out of. Here’s who The Pride of London expect to start:

Kepa Arrizabalaga, Chelsea (No. 1) Goalkeeper, Spain

Arrizabalaga has been Chelsea’s most consistent football employee this season. he has averaged about 3.8 saves per game, at an 83% per cent save rate. He has also prevented more goals than any other goalkeeper in the league except Alisson. It is no surprise that the Spaniard continues to start

Cesar Azpilicueta (No. 28) Right back, Spain

Azpilicueta was widely discussed after the Nottingham Forest game, with many expressing discontent at his featuring for the side. ‘Azpi’ was persuaded to stay by Thomas Tuchel, for reasons no one else knows, as FC Barcelona was openly interested in signing him. Chelsea did not get any backup right back in the transfer window, so when Reece James goes down injured, the Spaniard will be the one to play.