Ahead of the 2016-17 English Premier League season Outside90 examines the probable starting XI new Chelsea manager Antonio Conte will likely select.
Although, employing a 3-5-2 system appeared a genuine possibility under the Italian tactician – using the recent pre-season as a precedent – it appears Conte will instead utilise variations of a 4-4-2 formation in his first season at the helm.
Goalkeeper – Thibaut Courtois
The reliable Belgian shot-stopper endured a rather underwhelming 2015-16 campaign by his incredibly lofty standards as injury and a falling out with former goalkeeper coach Christophe Lollichon took its toll. However, expect the former Atletico Madrid custodian to return to the form that saw Chelsea capture the Premier League title two seasons’ ago.
Right-back – Branislav Ivanovic
Ivanovic has been one of the staples in the Blues’ defence for nearly a decade, yet age appears to be catching up with the Serbian veteran. Last season, especially, seemed to expose some of his defensive deficiencies as the 32-year-old noticeably lost a yard of pace. Nevertheless, expect Conte to stick with him for the moment, while youngster Ola Aina waits in the wings.
Centre-back – Gary Cahill
The English international will likely hold down a starting berth in the first-half of the season, while Kurt Zouma continues his recovery from an ACL injury. The club is yet to sign another central-defender, meaning Cahill will be given the chance to impress.
Centre-back – John Terry
In what is predicted to be his final year at Stamford Bridge, the Chelsea stalwart will hope to taste success at the culmination of the season. The legend, who has been the epitome of consistency and longevity for an eternity, is no doubt crucial to the West London’s title aspirations even if his game time diminishes over the course of the campaign.
Left-back – Cesar Azpilicueta
Azpilicueta has been synonymous with versatility for some time now, able to play on either flank and on the rare occasion as an auxiliary centre-half. The Spanish international has made the position his own and forced Baba Rahman to leave on-loan in order to receive more minutes.
Centre-midfield – N’Golo Kante
The Frenchman is anticipated to fulfil the ‘Makelele role’ made famous by the industrious Claude Makelele during his time with the Blues. After moving from reigning champions Leicester City, Kante will be entrusted with providing defensive cover in front of the back-four, pick-pocketing opposition players and working tirelessly to ignite defence into attack.
Centre-midfield – Nemanja Matic
Matic, like many members of the squad last year, experienced a disappointing year. In saying that, Conte was recently quoted in believing the Serb can be one of the world’s best midfielders, giving him a great deal of confidence. It is for this reason he will possibly get the nod ahead of Cesc Fabregas for now at least.
Left-midfield – Eden Hazard
The diminutive Belgian is showing auspicious signs he is back to his best following a string of strong performances in preseason. The Italian boss will be optimistic his arguably most talented player will carry that devastating form into the beginning of the campaign.
Right-midfield – Willian
On the opposite side of the park Willian should occupy the right-wing. Patently the club’s best footballer during a dismal 15-16 campaign for Chelsea, the Brazilian will want to consolidate his exploits, combining his sheer pace and trickery into more goals.
Second striker/Attacking Midfield – Oscar
Despite speculation linking the skilful Oscar with a move away from London, Conte is reportedly a huge admirer of his quality. Oscar does at times have the tendency to drift in and out of games, but with a defined role, situated in behind the striker, he has the capability to flourish and should keep Michy Batshuayi on the bench.
Striker – Diego Costa
The temperamental Costa can infuriate fans with his antics and lack of discipline. However, when he is on the field, menacing opposing defenders, there is no denying he is one of Europe’s most potent finishers. Reports had intimated perhaps his days were numbered under Conte, but if the pair can put their differences aside Chelsea may just return to the summit again.
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