Predicted Chelsea starting XI for Brighton friendly: Colwill starts in 4-2-3-1

Roberto De Zerbi, Manager of Brighton & Hove Albion, talks to Levi Colwill of Brighton & Hove Albion during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Emirates Stadium on May 14, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Roberto De Zerbi, Manager of Brighton & Hove Albion, talks to Levi Colwill of Brighton & Hove Albion during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Emirates Stadium on May 14, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
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Chelsea
Robert Lainton #1 of Wrexham AFC dives for the ball against Christopher Nkunku #45 of Chelsea FC during a pre-season friendly match at Kenan Stadium on July 19, 2023 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)

Central Midfield: Cesare Casadei (Italy)

Almost every CFC player that played against the Robins looked promising but Casadei was undoubtedly one of the best. He looked comfortable on the ball and made some beautiful passes, out of which one ended up in the back of the net. Pochettino would be itching to put him on the field again and then make a decision about his future.

Central Midfield: Enzo Fernandez (Argentina) 

Assuming that the Argentine was left out to give the younger lads a go against a relatively weaker opposition, he should be back in the squad for the upcoming friendlies. His ability to take control of the midfield would help Casadei play freely and get into advanced positions often.

Central Attacking Midfield: Christopher Nkunku (France)

Nkunku enjoyed his debut up front but the position throws a monkey wrench into his overall performance as he’s not involved enough. Fielding him in a deeper position behind a no.9 in a free role could help us get the most out of him. And although he did mention that he liked playing up top, experimenting a bit wouldn’t harm.