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

The effort that the boys have been putting in training bore fruit as Mauricio Pochettino’s first game as Chelsea manager proved to be a resounding success. The wonderkids were given their chance and almost none failed to deliver. Going into the game, the supporters were unsure about multiple aspects and will be feeling a lot more confident now that they’ve got to witness the Argentine’s approach.

Next up, Brighton & Hove Albion. The Gaffer got his chance to take a look at what our youngsters have to offer against a National League winning side. And will now contemplate bringing in the first team players and build match sharpness before the first game of the season which is scheduled against Liverpool in three weeks time.

Predicted Chelsea XI (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: Gabriel Slonina (USA)

Jamie Cumming and Lucas Bergstrom from the development squad featured against Wrexham. And although there are reports suggesting that one of two will end up serving as deputy to our first choice keeper – Kepa Arrizabalaga, the Chels’ faithful are hoping that the American International gets his chance before the decision is made.

Right Back: Malo Gusto (France)

With confirmation of Reece James’ arrival, Pochettino has two right backs at his disposal. Gusto looked rusty and will hope to put out a better display after his competition arrived.

Centre Back: Trevoh Chalobah (England)

The panic-stricken supporters wanted the club to prioritize reinforcing the defence after Wesley Fofana’s injury. However the very reliable Trevoh Chalobah has done it again. Top display captaining the side and if he continues to impress, the Blues will not need to bother about the defence.

Centre Back: Levi Colwill (England)

Pochettino chose to keep those involved in the U21 Euros out as the Wrexham game came too soon. But Colwill be expect to be involved this time around. Watching him get on the field is crucial for the supporters as there’s a lot of uncertainty regarding his future, and him playing against Brighton itself would clear the air.

Left Back: Ben Chilwell (England)

CFC are blessed with an abundance of quality options to field in this position. But after that sublime finish and reports of top performances in training as well, Chilwell should be getting the nod over Marc Cucurella and Ian Maatsen.

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.

Right Wing: Noni Madueke (England)

Madueke is another player who we would expect to start against Brighton after his successful campaign with the young Lions. The Chels’ faithful would also love to see more of Angelo Gabriel who surprised everyone watching the game with how gifted he is, we could expect the some of the same from him in the second half.

Left Wing: Mykhailo Mudryk (Ukraine)

Ian Maatsen got his brace with two sublime finishes and could be expected to continue in the same role but the supporters would definitely love to watch their marquee signing get a few minutes under his belt. Mudryk made the right choice joining the Ukraine U21s and would hope to use that momentum heading into this season.

Centre forward: Nicholas Jackson (Senegal)

Nicholas Jackson, he’s in a class of his own. The fanbase were very skeptical and didn’t know if they could rely on him as our first choice striker. But his performance clearly sent out a message to all fans and the owners as well, there is no need to panic and over pay for strikers that don’t fit our system and aren’t world class. He’s bought us time until January, and the Blues are excited to see what he can produce when paired up with the French International up top.

What changes would you make if you were Pochettino?