Chelsea vs Man City: These 3 Blues stars must start

Enzo Maresca's Chelsea era in the Premier League will officially kick off on Sunday against reigning champions Manchester City at Stamford Bridge in a highly anticipated clash. Chelsea were outclassed by a second-string Pep Guardiola side during their pre-season encounter at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, USA. Despite Pep Guardiola confirming in his press conference that midfield general Rodri will miss this massive encounter due to a hamstring injury, Manchester City still possess the firepower to trouble Chelsea's fragile defense.

After a turbulent pre-season, pressure is already mounting on Enzo Maresca before a single Premier League ball has been kicked. Chelsea’s squad remains bloated, reminiscent of the situation Graham Potter faced when he took over during the 2022/2023 season. Transfer rumors continue to swirl around Napoli striker Victor Osimhen potentially joining Chelsea before the transfer window closes.

Even if the Nigerian superstar doesn't make the move to Chelsea, the current attack looks tantalizing and is poised to improve. With no significant injury concerns apart from captain Reece James, Maresca faces a tough decision regarding the formation and personnel to execute his plans against Guardiola's juggernaut. Here at the Pride of London, we take a look at three players who must start in this crucial matchup against the reigning champions.

Christopher Nkunku

Christopher Nkunku was Chelsea's best player in pre-season, netting three goals and displaying his versatility across the forward line. This adaptability makes him an invaluable asset for Chelsea, capable of playing in multiple attacking positions. Last season, an early injury setback derailed his debut campaign in the Premier league, but the French international is now fully fit and eager to make an impact in a new look and tantalising Chelsea side.

With a wealth of attacking talent at Chelsea's disposal including Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Raheem Sterling, Nicolas Jackson, and Mykhailo Mudryk, Nkunku is poised to be one of the first names on the team sheet, provided he stays injury-free. His potential partnership with Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto could form a devastating trio under Maresca, making Chelsea's attack one of the most potent in the league.

Cole Palmer

Cole Palmer, who just extended his contract to 2033, had an impressive 2023/24 season at Stamford Bridge, contributing to 33 goals. His attacking instincts were on full display during the Euros, where he shone when given the opportunity. As the new season approaches, Palmer is expected to be a central figure in Chelsea's attack, leading the charge from a familiar position up front.

The Blues Player of the season didn’t join his teammates on the US tour, as he was granted an extended break following his EURO 2024 campaign with the Three Lions. He made his first pre-season appearance last Sunday against Inter Milan at Stamford Bridge. Although he may not play the full 90 minutes against his boyhood club, Manchester City, due to limited pre-season action and fitness, Palmer is almost certain to start.

Chelsea looked sharper and more dangerous with Palmer in the line-up, and the prospect of an attacking quartet featuring Pedro Neto, Nkunku, Jackson/ Osimhen, and Palmer this season, is mouth-watering. The Blues have shown glimpses of attacking prowess in pre-season, and if their offense clicks, opponents could be in for a tough time. However, Chelsea's defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern, and they may need to outscore their opponents until the backline issues are addressed.

Marc Cucurella

Chelsea's defense was a major concern last season, conceding 63 league goals under Mauricio Pochettino, averaging 1.66 goals per game. Despite this, defensive issues have persisted under Enzo Maresca, with the Blues allowing 13 goals in just 6 matches—a worrying average of 2.2 goals per game. While the sample size is small, it signals that Chelsea's defensive frailties remain a pressing issue.

During the US tour, Maresca experimented with Reece James and Malo Gusto as inverted full backs with mixed results. Interestingly, Pochettino found success using Marc Cucurella in a similar role towards the end of last season, which coincided with a five-game winning streak. Given Maresca's preference for a possession-based style, Cucurella could see more action in this inverted role under the new head coach.

Marc Cucurella, who provided the crucial assist for Spain's winning goal in the European Championship final this summer, was granted an extended holiday before rejoining the Chelsea squad.

Cucurella displayed his ability in the inverted role position during Chelsea's final pre-season match against Inter Milan at Stamford Bridge, where he looked comfortable and effective. Although Malo Gusto has predominantly featured at left-back during pre-season, he is expected to shift to right-back following Reece James' latest injury. This change should pave the way for the European champion to take up the left-back position, where he could play a key role in stabilizing Chelsea's defense.