Maurizio Sarri will make his competitive bow as Chelsea head coach when the Blues take on Manchester City in the Community Shield clash on Sunday.
Sarri, who took over from compatriot Antonio Conte last month, has a lot of first-team players absent due after World Cup commitments.
In the recent friendly, Chelsea were beaten on penalties by Arsenal and despite the pre-season ending in a defeat, there were a lot of positives to take for Sarri before the start of the Premier League season.
But before the new season, it is the Community Shield the Blues will try to win by defeating Manchester City on Sunday.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek played against Arsenal and should feature, while it could be too early for Willian.
Cesc Fabregas picked up an injury in the pre-season loss against Arsenal and that rules him out against City.
As Thibaut Courtois is yet to return from his post-World Cup holidays, Caballero should start between the sticks.
Azpilicueta’s flexibility to play anywhere across the backline should help Sarri. In the Italian’s fluid system, Azpilicueta would certainly thrive.
Luiz fell out of favour under former boss Antonio Conte but that no longer seems to be the case under the newly appointed Sarri, whose eye for details could prove beneficial for the Brazilian defender.
With Sarri at the helm now, Rudiger could enjoy a lot of possession and play with the extra freedom.
Since joining Chelsea, Alonso has turned out to be a reliable player in defence.
Jorginho has already left his imprint in the pre-season games he featured. Sarri and Jorginho, who have worked together for 3 years, should have no difficulties in continuing it.
Under Sarri’s attacking philosophy, Barkley could excel at the highest level and fulfil his potential after an injury-hit campaign last term.
Drinkwater joined Chelsea on deadline day last summer but struggled for first-team football at Stamford Bridge, making just 12 starts in all competitions. He needs to be more dynamic and consistent to stand a chance of becoming a regular first-team player under Sarri.
Chelsea’s lightning quick teenager, Callum Hudson-Odoi has shown enough signs of becoming a future star at Stamford Bridge. The test against City would certainly be relished by the 17-year-old.
Pedro netted twice in pre-season and could be afforded the chance to build on the momentum with a start against City.
Read more: Chelsea’s £33m star could finally find his feet under the charismatic Maurizio Sarri
Morata is struggling at the moment as the 25-year-old missed several chances in the friendly against Arsenal. The striker’s confidence could be low but the Community Shield is a good chance for him to get back his mojo.
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