Saturday’s early kick-off will see Chelsea taking on Manchester City away from home. It’s evidently a war for the top spot and the pitch will be filled with a compendium of world-class troops. Antonio Conte’s men will be coming in with a greater momentum, having seen victories in the last 7 matches and only letting in a single goal in the process.
The change of fortunes was witnessed as soon as the former Juventus manager opted for a 3-4-3 formation following a dreadful 3-0 defeat to Arsenal back in September. Since then, with every passing week, the team is habitually playing better football. Apart from the tactics, the real deal was sticking with the same starting lineup over the course of the winning streak. Taking full advantage of not playing in any European tournaments, the squad look fit and fresh while injuries barely sniff the players.
In the upcoming match, Conte would likely be fielding the same first XI as well. There will be a slight makeshift on the bench, though, as John Terry is out with a gluteal strain. Another player that could be returning to the squad is John Obi Mikel who has recovered from a muscle injury. Despite the return, clearly, the Nigerian will be watching the game from the bench bar any injuries or change of strategy is required during the play.
Both individuals mentioned above are the club’s longest-serving players. Yet reports have emerged that Mikel is very likely to end his 10-year spell with Chelsea as Jose Mourinho is eyeing a reunion with him at Old Trafford. Interests have also emerged from China, Turkey and MLS. Since the appointment of Conte, he hasn’t really spent much time with the 29-year-old as even during the preseason, he was involved with his country in the 2016 Olympics.
The Citizens might be holding home ground advantage yet the Blues have seized maximum points in the last three away matches and impressively sealing the goalpost in all occasion. However, they did huff and puff to get into their usual rhythm in the opening 45 minutes against Spurs last time out and Conte surely knows his team needs to get on the front foot against Manchester City, who possesses one of the most fearful attacking stars in the world.
Both sides will be eyeing for nothing but three points, particularly Pep Guardiola to ensure his side leapfrog to the top spot. While Liverpool, who are sandwiched between Chelsea and Manchester City in the second spot will be hoping the points are shared at the Etihad Stadium. Klopp’s men visit the Dean Court to take on Bournemouth the following day. Pretty exciting weekend coming ahead as it could totally modify the summit of the league.