Chelsea ‘amazing’ predicted XI vs Leicester City as £52m man starts second Premier League game of the season
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Chelsea’s manager is set for a bit of a homecoming this weekend as the Blues head to the Midlands to face Leicester City. Enzo Maresca, now at the helm of Chelsea, was in charge of Leicester before making the move to Stamford Bridge. It’ll be an interesting reunion, and while Maresca himself isn’t expected to face any jeers, the reception for players like Wesley Fofana and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall might be less certain.
As Chelsea gears up for Premier League action against the newly promoted Foxes, The Chelsea Chronicle has weighed in with their predicted starting XI.
Chelsea Predicted XI vs Leicester City
Robert Sanchez is set to retain his spot between the posts, despite another shaky moment during the international break. For now, he holds on to the gloves as Chelsea’s first-choice keeper.
With Reece James sidelined due to injury, Malo Gusto will likely continue in the more attack-minded full-back role on the right. On the other side, Marc Cucurella will slot back in at left-back after an impressive showing against Arsenal, particularly in his duel with Bukayo Saka.
The center-back pairing will remain unchanged, with former Leicester defender Wesley Fofana starting against his old team alongside Levi Colwill. This duo has been Maresca’s go-to pairing whenever available.
In midfield, Moises Caicedo will start despite returning late from international duty. He only featured in one match during the break, so fatigue shouldn’t be a major concern. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s cautious approach with returning players means Romeo Lavia will remain on the bench. This opens up a big opportunity for Enzo Fernandez, who’ll look to boss the middle of the park.
Nkunku Returns to the Starting XI
Further upfield, Christopher Nkunku will start for just the second time this Premier League season, giving Chelsea fans a glimpse of the creative spark they’ve been waiting for. His inclusion will see Cole Palmer shift to the right wing, pushing Noni Madueke to the bench for now. On the left, Pedro Neto will continue, having already made a huge impact since his summer arrival.
Leading the line is Nicolas Jackson, who’s been finding the net with some consistency and will be eager to add to his tally of six Premier League goals.
Predicted Chelsea XI
Sanchez; Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Palmer, Nkunku, Neto; Jackson
With this lineup, Chelsea will be hoping to return to winning ways and keep pace in the league. As for Maresca, he’ll be hoping this trip back to Leicester ends on a triumphant note.
