Chelsea Team Update and Expected Lineup Against Charlton on January 10

This is the Chelsea team news and a predicted lineup as they prepare to face Charlton Athletic in the FA Cup. This match marks their entry into the tournament and the first game under new manager Liam Rosenior. It will be interesting to see how he adjusts the team’s tactics, whether he opts for a strong lineup or uses this opportunity to test some lesser-used players and academy talents who could contribute for the rest of the season.

Chelsea Team News & Predicted Lineup vs Charlton

Recent Chelsea Lineups

Rob Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen have shared goalkeeping duties recently, with Sanchez possibly resting for this match due to a minor issue. The defense has included Marc Cucurella, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, Wes Fofana, Malo Gusto, Reece James, and Josh Acheampong due to injuries and rotation among players.

James has also played in midfield alongside Andrey Santos, Moises Caicedo, and Enzo Fernandez. Enzo has been used in a more advanced position as a number ten, where Cole Palmer has also featured. Palmer has moved to the wing, where Pedro Neto and Estevao have been starting since Enzo Maresca’s exit.

Liam Delap and Joao Pedro have been alternating in the striker role, with Delap expected to start after his good form following the manager change.

Chelsea’s Recent Performance & Tactics

The team has primarily used a 4-2-3-1 formation, making some tweaks to shift their strategy. There’s been a noticeable focus on Gusto’s forward runs as a full-back, while Palmer’s return to the right wing allows him to move into central positions. The midfield setup has stabilized with Enzo playing further up the field. Chelsea continues to build up play slowly, relying on passing to create openings.

However, their recent form has not been ideal, with only two wins in their last eleven matches across all competitions. They have gone without a league win since December 13. Although a victory against Cardiff helped their record, ongoing defensive issues have hindered their ability to secure wins.

Chelsea Team Updates

No new updates were shared in the manager’s press conference. As it is the first match for Rosenior, the focus was mainly on him rather than player availability. Therefore, we rely on information from Premier Injuries and prior injury reports.

Cucurella is suspended, while Romeo Lavia is injured and Mykhailo Muryk is also unavailable due to suspension. Levi Colwill remains out with an ACL injury, and there has been no update on Dario Essugo. Some players may be rested for the upcoming match against Arsenal, meaning Enzo, Delap, James, Chalobah, and others could start on the bench.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup

Moises Caicedo is almost certain to start since he is suspended for the Carabao Cup semi-final, making this match a chance for him to stay match-fit.

GK – Filip Jorgensen

LB – Jorrel Hato

CB – Wes Fofana

CB – Tosin Adarabioyo

RB – Josh Acheampong

DM – Moises Caicedo

DM – Andrey Santos

W – Alejandro Garnacho

AM – Facundo Buonanotte

W – Estevao

ST – Joao Pedro