Chelsea predicted XI vs Real Madrid: Thiago Silva starts, Havertz dropped
Right Wing back: Reece James
Reece James looks fully fit now and will be up for the challenge against the flamboyant winger Vincius Jr. who has struggled to get past the Cobham product in the past meetings. With Ferland Mendy unavailable for selection, Ancelotti will be forced to play one of his players out of position and James will be expected to exploit that weakness to its full extent.
Central Midfield: N’Golo Kante
N’Golo Kante made his first start in seven months last week when Bruno Saltor’s Chelsea went up against Liverpool. The world class midfielder wasn’t sluggish nor did he look rusty and was by far the best player on the pitch. Frank Lampard wisely chose to rest him on the weekend and the Frenchman should be ready to go all out and frustrate the opposition.
Frank Lampard on N'Golo Kante:
— Absolute Chelsea (@AbsoluteChelsea) April 11, 2023
"He's a special player and I understand about consistency, and his difficulty with injuries. In terms of coming back and playing a high level I've witnessed it in the Super Cup final vs Liverpool years ago. He has the capacity to do that."
Central Midfield: Enzo Fernandez
The World Cup hero has continued to impress at club level. He has receiving plaudits from club legends and pundits all over the world for his top performances even when the side has been struggling. And in his press conference he seemed to be very confident quoting:
"“Afraid, we’re not afraid. There is respect because this is a football match and we know the quality they have. We will try to contract them with our defenders and have great defensive work and make a wonderful match.”"
Central Midfield: Mateo Kovacic
The Croatian International has been given the captain’s armband in the absence of Azpilicueta, Kante and Silva. There have been a few moments of brilliance but other than that Kovacic has been putting out subpar displays with a succession of poor performances. But Frank Lampard can rely on him for his work rate and ability on the ball which could help the side tremendously.
However if Mason Mount passes the fitness test and is deemed fit enough to start the game, Kovacic will be sweating over his spot in the playing XI.
Left Wing back: Ben Chilwell
Ben Chilwell returned from a long term injury and got back to business in fine form straightaway with his explosive runs on the left flank. However he has looked a bit shaky in the last few games and was dropped by the Gaffer on the weekend. But with Marc Cucurella the only other available option at his disposal, Ben Chilwell should be getting the nod over him as his ability commands a place in the lineup.