On Sunday, Chelsea take on a strong Manchester City side at Stamford Bridge. It has been a tough week for the Blues with off-field issues dominating the headlines, but the focus now must shift back to the task of winning matches.
Our midweek loss to Juventus in the Champions League saw manager Roberto Di Matteo lose his job. Former Liverpool and Inter Milan manager Rafael Benitez was appointed by the club on an interim basis and his first task isn’t an easy one. Manchester City were never going to be an easy team to beat, but given our recent form and off-field issues, Rafa’s first match in charge just got a lot harder.
Chelsea are going through their infamous “winter slump” yet again this season. The Blues haven’t won a single match in the month of November and are on the verge of being eliminated from the Champions League. City’s form in Europe has been worse, with the English champions elimination from the tournament now confirmed. However, in the Premier League they have been unbeatable, literally. City are the only unbeaten team in England so far this season. Considering the form Chelsea have been in, it’s fair to say that we have our work cut out for us.
Both teams don’t hold back in offence, so it’s fair to say one can expect a good game of football (especially if you’re a neutral). The aim for Chelsea and Rafael Benitez will be to get back to winning ways this Sunday. The sooner that happens, the better for us.
Injury news:
Chelsea will be without the services of captain John Terry and vice-captain Frank Lampard, so expect Petr Cech to lead the line-up. Daniel Sturridge is also unavailable for this match so expect Fernando Torres to lead the attack.
City captain Vincent Kompany will face a late fitness test to determine his availability after an injury during City’s Champions League match against Real left the Belgian on crutches. Mario Balotelli, who has been out for some time will be available but Mancini has confirmed that Gael Clichy is definitely out of this match.
Key stats:
1) Chelsea have conceded 22 goals in their last 10 games in all competitions.
2) City have scored 18 goals in their last 10 games in all competitions.
Predicted Chelsea line-up:
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