Chelsea Predicted XI to Face Manchester United: Reece James to Replace Moises Caicedo
Chelsea are set to host Manchester United in their final home match of the Premier League season, with manager Enzo Maresca facing some tough team selection decisions. The Blues currently occupy the final Champions League spot, but a poor result against the Red Devils could see them slip out of the top five if Aston Villa beat Tottenham.
According to Football Insider, Maresca’s team selection will be impacted by the absence of loanee Jadon Sancho, who is ineligible to play against his parent club, and the suspended Nicolas Jackson. Additionally, Wesley Fofana, Omari Kellyman, Christopher Nkunku, and Marc Guiu are all nursing injuries.
In goal, Robert Sanchez is expected to retain his place, having appeared in 30 of Chelsea’s 36 Premier League outings this term. The Spain international has maintained eight clean sheets in the top-flight this season, with his most recent shutout arriving in a 1-0 victory over Everton on 26 April.
Football Insider reports that Reece James could return to the starting lineup against Manchester United, potentially replacing Moises Caicedo in the right-back role. James appeared as a substitute against Newcastle, and Maresca may be keen to give him 90 minutes amid an otherwise injury-hit campaign.
Trevoh Chalobah and Levi Colwill are expected to continue in the centre of defence, with Marc Cucurella likely to start at left-back. Cucurella has displayed both his defensive and attacking credentials this term, notching four goals and one assist in the Premier League.
In midfield, Romeo Lavia could remain alongside Enzo Fernandez, who has been one of Chelsea’s standout performers this season, scoring seven goals and creating 13 assists across all competitions. Fernandez has made 13 goal contributions in the Premier League, most recently scoring in a 3-1 win over champions Liverpool on 4 May.
Up front, Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke are expected to start on the wings, although both players have struggled for form in recent weeks. Palmer has notched 15 goals and eight assists in the Premier League this campaign, while Madueke has continued to show his threat in the Conference League.
Football Insider suggests that Tyrique George could start up front, potentially replacing the suspended Nicolas Jackson. George has impressed in the Conference League and scored in a substitute appearance in a 2-1 win against Fulham last month.
Pedro Neto could lead the line for Chelsea, with Jackson suspended and Guiu injured. Neto has previously led the line at Stamford Bridge on a makeshift basis and could be given the nod against Manchester United.
The predicted Chelsea XI to face Manchester United is:
* Robert Sanchez (goalkeeper)
* Reece James (right-back)
* Trevoh Chalobah (centre-back)
* Levi Colwill (centre-back)
* Marc Cucurella (left-back)
* Romeo Lavia (central midfield)
* Enzo Fernandez (central midfield)
* Cole Palmer (right wing)
* Noni Madueke (left wing)
* Tyrique George (striker)
* Pedro Neto (striker)
This team selection is based on recent form and injuries, and Maresca may make changes to his lineup depending on the specific needs of the team. As noted by Football Insider, the Conference League final clash with Real Betis on 28 May is also an important consideration for Maresca when making his team selection decisions.
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