Carter in, Charles out: Predicting Chelsea’s 2023/2024 starting XI

It is hard to believe, but Chelsea Women’s quest for a fifth consecutive Women’s Super League title is right around the corner. On September 3, Emma Hayes’ side return to Kingsmeadow to take on AS Roma in its first action since defeating Reading in May to win the title. With all the new transfers coming into the club, the talent is arguably the highest it has ever been in west London.

The planning for the now has always been there, but this window demonstrated even more promise for this team for the foreseeable future. As the youngsters continue to make permanent moves elsewhere or on loan, it seems like a good time following the World Cup to take a look at the potential lineup to begin the campaign. Considering all the injuries that are currently being dealt with from players like Catarina Macario, here is what the CFCW lineup would look like if the Tottenham fixture was tomorrow.

Predicted Chelsea Women starting XI to begin Women’s Super League season

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Goalkeeper: Ann-Katrin Berger (Germany)

I know what most people are going to say after this World Cup. Wait, not Zecira Musovic? Yes, she had a sensational tournament for Sweden, leading her nation to a thrilling triumph over the USWNT in the Round of 16. The German Ann-Katrin Berger did not make it between the post once this summer in competitive action.

That should not take away from the experience, and stop-stopping talent that the 32-year-old displayed more often than not last season. This may very well be the year of transition in goal for the west Londoners, but to kick things off, leaning towards a player that has been there, done that is the safer option.