Chelsea predicted lineup vs Arsenal: 3 changes made as Felix starts in 3-4-3

Chelsea can play a crucial role in the Premier League title race as they take on Arsenal in the London derby on Tuesday evening. The Blues are searching for their first win under caretaker manager Frank Lampard and there is no better occasion than the London derby to claim a win and get hold of the bragging rights.

A win against the Gunners will put a huge dent in Arsenal’s hopes of a first Premier League title since 2003-04 season. Chelsea’s season is over and a mid table finish is what they can achieve at best.

Lampard will be without Kalidou Koulibaly, Marc Cucurella, Reece James and Mason Mount remain unavailable for the game. Chelsea’s disastrous run has seen players’ performance dip heavily and getting a win in the bag will act as a confidence booster.

Chelsea predicted lineup vs Arsenal

Goalkeeper: Kepa Arrizabalaga

Kepa has remained Chelsea’s first choice under Lampard as well. The Spaniard has kept nine clean sheets in the Premier League. Kepa’s future remains in doubt as CFC look for a major upgrade between sticks and if he wants to retain his place, he needs to impress the club chiefs and put a strong case forward.

Defence:

Centre back: Wesley Fofana

Wesley Fofana played as the right sided centre back in a back three against Brentford. The Frenchman should retain his place in the side. With Koulibaly sidelined with injury, Fofana is likely to start alongside Thiago Silva until the end of the season.

Centre back: Thiago Silva

The natural leader in the backline, Thiago Silva will have an interesting battle with Gabriel Jesus. The fleet footed Arsenal attack can give Chelsea a lot to worry about but Silva’s presence can help Chelsea contain Arsenal’s threat.

Centre back: Benoit Badiashile

Benoit Badiashile has been one of Chelsea’s best players this season and the Blues have looked assured at the back when he has started the game. Hence, his absence from the starting lineup against Brentford did come as a surprise.

Midfield:

Right wing back: Cesar Azpilicueta

Cesar Azpilicueta will have an enticing battle with Gabriel Martinelli. The Spaniard commands assurance but his lack of pace often turns a villain against him. However, he has continued to show solidity at the back on most occasions.

Central midfield: Enzo Fernandez

Enzo Fernandez will have a crucial role to play in the midfield. If the Chelsea midfield is able to negate the Arsenal midfield, CFC have a solid chance of getting a positive result. For that to happen, Fernandez needs to put in a flawless performance.

Central midfield: N’Golo Kante

The midfield partnership of N’Golo Kante and Fernandez hasn’t made the headlines until now. It is usually Fernandez and Mateo Kovacic who have partnered in the midfield. However, the Croatian has been struggling lately and a change could be experimented.

Left wing back: Ben Chilwell

Ben Chilwell has been one of the best players in Chelsea’s second half of the season. The Englishman has been potent when going forward and has showcased fine attacking abilities. He could have an enduring 90 minutes against Bukayo Saka but he will be hoping to stop him and come out on top.

Attack:

Left wing: Joao Felix

Joao Felix did not start the last game against Brentford but came on in the second half. The Portuguese can be decisive in attack, creating chances and being at the end of chances. Chelsea’s attacking woes can be mitigated with the presence of Felix.

Striker: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang came on as a substitute against the Bees, playing the second half. Although, he did not score, with him in the attack, CFC had a focal point in the attack. He looked rusty but more minutes would improve his finishing and his confidence.

Right wing: Raheem Sterling

Raheem Sterling looks far more comfortable on the right wing. The Englishman should be able to supply threat from the right flank and serve chances to Aubameyang.

Will CFC clinch three points against Arsenal?