Chelsea are likely to make some changes to their starting side for their second group stage game of the Club World Cup against Flamengo.
Despite the two sides being the obvious candidates to win the group, Enzo Maresca will be taking into consideration the mammoth season his players have already been through when selecting his side.
Maresca is considering breaking Club World Cup rules by heavily rotating his side, despite it being stated that they must use their best squad possible as part of the agreement to be in the competition.
The manager hinted that Chelsea fans would see some new starters for their second group game, and The Chelsea Chronicle have predicted there will be a number of changes to the starting side.
Here’s who we think Maresca will go with to take on the Brazilian side on Friday night.
Chelsea predicted XI vs Flamengo
After establishing himself as the current number one at the club, Robert Sanchez will start between the sticks ahead of Filip Jorgensen.
With Reece James at risk of a suspension, Malo Gusto will be brought into the starting side. The Frenchman will be hoping for a return to form after a tough end to the campaign.
The same is the case for Tosin Adarabioyo, and he will now start from the bench in place of Trevoh Chalobah.
He will be partnered at the back by Levi Colwill, who was the only member of the back four last time out who was not carded.
With there still being no recognised alternative for Marc Cucurella, the Spaniard will walk the tightrope of a suspension against Flamengo.
Moises Caicedo is enjoying a sensational 18 months in a Chelsea shirt, and his importance to Maresca’s side will be on show when he retains his place on Friday night.
This time though he will be partnered by Andrey Santos. Caicedo has tipped the pair to have a strong partnership at Stamford Bridge following his multiple loan spells away from the club.
Ahead of those two, Enzo Fernandez will be looking to keep up his improved form in front of goal. The World Cup winner was on hand to put Monday night’s game beyond doubt with the second goal.
This will see Cole Palmer’s position altered slightly to be the right-sided attacker. It is the role where he performed as arguably the best player in the Premier League under Mauricio Pochettino.
On the opposite flank, Pedro Neto will be called upon to change wings, as he looks to build on his very strong first appearance in the United States.
Up front, Liam Delap will make his first Chelsea start after his £30m move. American media praised Delap after his debut off the bench against LAFC.
