Chelsea’s Team Update and Expected Lineup Against Newcastle on December 20

This is the Chelsea team news ahead of their Premier League match against Newcastle United on Saturday. We will cover the latest injury updates, recent starters, and the manager’s tactical setup, followed by a predicted lineup for the game. This matchup will feature contrasting styles between Eddie Howe’s pressing game and Enzo Maresca’s possession-based approach.

Chelsea Team News & Predicted Lineup vs Newcastle

How Chelsea Have Lined Up Recently

Robert Sanchez has been the primary goalkeeper, while Filip Jorgensen played against Cardiff midweek. The defense has included Marc Cucurella, Jorrel Hato, Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, Josh Acheampong, Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, and Malo Gusto. Reece James has primarily played in the midfield rather than his usual right-back position recently.

The midfield often features Enzo Fernandez alongside Moises Caicedo, but due to fitness issues, James and Andrey Santos have stepped in. Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho are competing for the left-wing position, while Pedro Neto has secured the right side. Estevao has had limited playing time lately, and Tyrique George was subbed off early in midweek. Cole Palmer, Enzo, Facundo Bunoanotte, and Joao Pedro have played in attacking midfield roles.

Pedro has also taken up the striker role, though Liam Delap is the preferred choice. Marc Guiu had a run-out in the Carabao Cup but typically does not start games.

Chelsea Recent Form & Tactics

Maresca employs a flexible 4-2-3-1 formation that can change based on the opponent and match situation. Depending on the midfield arrangement, one player may advance into attack, or the full-backs may push forward. This tactic was particularly effective last week against Everton, with the right-back scoring and assisting.

After a winless streak of four matches, Chelsea has bounced back with consecutive wins against Everton and Cardiff. They have regained their scoring touch, being held goalless only twice this season. A win here would mark a third consecutive victory, boosting their momentum ahead of a challenging match against Aston Villa.

Chelsea Team News

There are six players listed as absent for this match. Delap and Estevao are out until at least the next game. Mykhailo Mudryk remains suspended, while Dario Essugo, Levi Colwill, and Romeo Lavia are long-term injury concerns. The manager has had to adapt to these situations.

Fortunately, the squad is relatively fresh, as the midweek game against a League 1 team allowed the coach to rest several key players, including James, Palmer, Fofana, and Cucurella.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup for Newcastle Clash

GK – Rob Sanchez

LB – Marc Cucurella

CB – Wes Fofana

CB – Trevoh Chalobah

RB – Reece James

DM – Moises Caicedo

DM – Enzo Fernandez

W – Alejandro Garnacho

AM – Cole Palmer

W – Pedro Neto

ST – Joao Pedro