One of the most anticipated fixtures between Chelsea F.C. vs Newcastle United F.C. is upcoming, raising anticipation amongst supporters and analysts. Chelsea F.C. vs Newcastle United F.C. Both teams are at the top of their respective groups and who wins this intense battle will depend much on how these lineups finally play out. In this piece, we will have a look at the different possible starting XIs and tactical battles between these two sides in general
Chelsea F.C. Predicted Lineup
It is a new regime at Chelsea, tasked with rebuilding after what was quite an excellent season last time. However, the lineup is likely to be the best mix of veterans and new blood.
Goalkeeper: Robert Sánchez
At the other end, expect Robert Sánchez to get the nod in goal for Chelsea as he provides his side with a reliable presence due to shot stopping abilities and consistent command of the area.
Defenders: Reece James, Thiago Silva, Levi Colwill and Marc Cucurella
At right-back, the often captain Reece James offers a balance of great defensive solidity and attacking verve. Chelsea’s heart of defence will consist of veteran centre back Thiago Silva and promising young talent Levi Colwill. The reliable third man, who is also able to attack on his left wing side would be Marc Cucurella.
Midfielders: Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo and Conor Gallagher
Another key player who has been consistently playing at the youth level for Chelsea, Enzo Fernández is likely to start in the midfield of The Blues and he is well known as a passer with superior vision. He will have Moisés Caicedo beside him, providing some ruggedness and energy that Chelsea’s midfield isn’t quite stable without. In a box-to-box role, Conor Gallagher is recognized more for his work rate and pressing than he is any single attribute at this point.
ST: Raheem Sterling, Nicolas Jackson (LM), Mykhailo Mudryk ST)
Out wide on the right flank, Raheem Sterling is likely to be deployed higher up as a pacey goal scoring presence. Top scorer Nicolas Jackson will start as the central striker. He has been fully active in all of their recent games and made an impressive appearance too so there is no going away from him being present for this fixture. On the left wing, strong and speed Mudryk will take this position and serve as a line to Chelsea’s powerful attack.
Newcastle United F.C. Predicted Lineup
Between manager Eddie Howe, Newcastle United is on a dream rise. The Magpies have been in fine form during Premier League games with what looks like a settled side, packed full of confidence and ability.
Goalkeeper: Nick Pope
In goal, except for injuries, Nick Pope has been reliable for Newcastle. His ability to make saves and marshal his box is vital for how the team defends.
Defenders: Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schär, Sven Botman, Dan Burn
The experienced right back Kieran Trippier, for example, should help to provide leadership and expertise from set-pieces. In the centre of defence, Fabian Schär and Sven Botman combine physicality with technique. The arrival of Dan Burn, perhaps the most reliable left flank player in defence should fill out an experienced back line. He adds extra height and defensive awareness too.
Midfielders: Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali, Joelinton
In the middle of Newcastle are expected to be Bruno Guimarães a key part of their play, with his incisive passing and vision. Their summer signing Sandro Tonali is snapping at the opposition’s heels and adding pace, as well as their only real defensive intensity. The dangerous physical and attacking threat of Joelinton (prospering from the start in a more advanced midfield role)
Miguel Almirón, Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon (Forwards)
On the right, Miguel Almirón who scored two enormous goals in 2018 and plays with an endless motor will try to get wide. Physical power forward Alexander Isak would play in the first class as Best Group of Three or Filmereo. Another summer signing, Anthony Gordon will occupy the left and provide much needed speed in and behind.
Key Battles to Watch
Reece James(fielded out of position, completely wrong and needs to be sacked), Anthony Gordon (my young Gooner son’s favourite upcoming)
Reece James v Anthony Another interesting battle on the field will be between Chelsea’s Reece James and Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon. There is James, who O’Riley describes as a ‘tough tackler with the goal in him’, he will be tasked with combating Gordon’s speed and intelligent direct play. This respective battle from the wing could have a huge bearing on what happens in this one.
Thiago Silva v Alexander Isak
Thiago Silva will be against neck with the youthful effervescent Alexander Isak. The 30 year old will need to play well to counteract the attacking threat of Isak. Meanwhile, Isak’s movement to move into spaces will keep Silva alert and engaged throughout the game.
Enzo Fernández vs. Bruno Guimarães
Another focus point of the game will lie between Enzo Fernández and Bruno Guimarães in midfield. Aten Gabriel Malotka /Rolando A Both players are the metronome of their respective teams and will be looking to assert control. The only contest to surpass Fernández’s passing and vision with be the all around midfield play of Guimarães.
Tactical Insights
Chelsea’s Approach
Chelsea is likely to dominate possession, aiming to create chances through wide players like Sterling and Mudryk, with Jackson central. The midfield trio will be crucial in setting the pace, with Fernández expected to play a deep-lying playmaker role. Fullbacks, especially James, will push forward to support the attack, so Chelsea needs to stay disciplined defensively to avoid counter attacks.
Newcastle’s Strategy
Newcastle may focus on breaking quickly through their speedy wide players and Isak up front. With a deep defensive line, they aim to disrupt Chelsea’s rhythm in midfield and capitalize on counter attacks. Joelinton and Douglão in the midfield will aggressively tackle, win the ball high up, and launch quick counters.
Last minute changes and possible surprises
Again, it is football and things could change at the last minute for injuries or tactical or managerial reasons. Chelsea: The lineup could change a lot for the Blues, with players like N’Golo Kanté returning and summer signings coming in. At the same time, Newcastle might catch you off guard with their shape or even a curveball such as Callum Wilson coming off the bench at some stage.
Conclusion:
With two high quality sides facing off, Chelsea F.C. vs Newcastle United F.C. promises to be an unmissable match. The key battles across the pitch and the tactical duel between the managers will be fascinating to watch. The outcome could hinge on whether Chelsea controls possession or Newcastle capitalizes on their direct, counter-attacking style. With so much on the line, this match is set to be close and incredibly interesting for any football fan.
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