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(Image) Kante to start? Predicted 4-3-2-1 Chelsea XI to face Manchester City

Manchester City vs Chelsea prediction: Chelsea line-up

Chelsea face defending champions Manchester City for the first time this season at the Etihad on Saturday.  

The Blues are off to a flying start as they currently sit third in the Premier League table ahead of Pep Guardiola’s City.

Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham has been in sensational form this season.
Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham has been in sensational form this season. (Getty Images)

Meanwhile, City have slumped to 4th position after their 3-1 away loss to league leaders Liverpool in their league encounter.

With five wins in a row, Chelsea would be brimming with confidence ahead of the blockbuster clash against the Manchester side.

However, it would not be an easy task for manager Frank Lampard and his young side, as they lock horns with a side that has scored 35 goals in 12 games.

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard.
Chelsea boss Frank Lampard. (Getty Images)

Moreover, nothing short of a victory over Chelsea could ease the pressure on Guardiola, as any more slip-ups could dent their hopes of staying in the title race.

Team news

Centre-back Antonio Rudiger and midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek are still out, as they recover from their respective injuries, and would not be back until next month.

Meanwhile, Ross Barkley remains doubtful, as he has not completely recovered from his ankle injury.

Chelsea players celebrating a goal during a premier league encounter.
Chelsea players celebrating a goal during a premier league encounter. (Getty Images)

Man-in-form Christian Pulisic may not be rushed into the high-profile contest after his hip injury and is currently being assessed by the medical staff.

Predicted Chelsea XI

Formation: 4-3-2-1

Kepa Arrizabalaga (GK)

The Spaniard will continue as the Blues’ first-choice keeper and has started all their league matches so far.

Kepa Arrizabalaga
Kepa Arrizabalaga (Getty Images)

Cesar Azpilicueta (RB)

With immense experience under his belt, the Chelsea skipper is a definite choice in the first-team and will lead the Blues’ challenge.

Kurt Zouma (CB)

The Frenchman has been impressive of late and has formed a rock-solid partnership with the young Fikayo Tomori. He seems to be maturing with each game and is sure to feature.

Fikayo Tomori (CB)

The 21-year old academy product has repaid his manager’s faith and has grown into one of the most trusted players at the back.  

Fikayo Tomori in action for Chelsea.
Fikayo Tomori in action for Chelsea. (Getty Images)

Emerson (LB)

Clearly preferred over Spaniard Marcos Alonso, as evident from the game against Palace. The Italian should once again start at left-back.

Mateo Kovacic (RCM)

Kovacic seems to be enjoying life at Stamford Bridge and has formed a formidable pairing with Jorginho in the Blues’ midfield.

N’Golo Kante (CM)

The Chelsea main man came back in the last match against Palace after a long injury lay off, and is a definite starter against a top team like City.

Jorginho (LCM)

Italian Jorginho looks like a man reborn under Lampard after a rather average season last year. Has evolved into one of the most dynamic players for Chelsea.

N'Golo Kante playing for Chelsea.
N’Golo Kante playing for Chelsea. (Getty Images)

Willian (RAM)

Willian is once again back in the fray for Chelsea. He has hit peak form this season with 2 goals and 3 assists from 8 matches.

Mason Mount (LAM)

The youngster’s scintillating displays with the Blues earned him an England call-up recently and has played in Chelsea’s all 12 matches this season.

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Tammy Abraham (ST)

One of the picks of the season and the second-highest goal scorer in the league behind Leicester’s Jamie Vardy, with 10 goals, Tammy is sure to start.

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