Chelsea travel to the Allianz Arena on Wednesday night for a huge Champions League clash with Bayern Munich, and head coach Enzo Maresca has some big selection calls to make.
After drawing 2-2 with Brentford in the Premier League on Saturday, Maresca is under pressure to get his team selection spot on in Germany — and that should start with Cole Palmer’s return to the starting XI.
Palmer, who has just recovered from a groin injury, came off the bench to rescue Chelsea with the first goal of the comeback at the Gtech Community Stadium. The England international’s quality on the ball and eye for goal make him a must-start against Bayern’s backline.
Facundo Buonanotte was given the nod at the weekend but is unavailable for the Champions League due to not being registered in the group stage squad, making Palmer’s recall all but certain.
Attack: Garnacho in Line for First Start
Another potential change could come on the left flank, with Alejandro Garnacho pushing to make his first start for the Blues ahead of Jamie Bynoe-Gittens. The 21-year-old has impressed off the bench and could provide the pace and direct threat Chelsea need to hurt Bayern in transition.
Joao Pedro and Pedro Neto are both expected to retain their places, although Maresca revealed Pedro was not fully fit for Brentford. With Liam Delap sidelined until December, the Brazilian striker will almost certainly lead the line in Munich.
Defence: James and Cucurella to Return
In defence, Maresca is likely to revert to a more familiar back four. Jorrel Hato and Tosin Adarabioyo both started against Brentford, but Reece James and Marc Cucurella should be recalled to provide experience and stability in the full-back positions.
This would allow Wesley Fofana to return to his natural central role alongside Trevoh Chalobah, offering Chelsea a more solid base in front of Robert Sanchez.
Midfield: Unbreakable Duo
There will be no surprises in midfield, where Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez have forged an impressive partnership. The pair will be key in controlling the tempo and breaking up Bayern’s attacks.
Predicted Chelsea XI vs Bayern Munich
Sanchez; James, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho; Pedro
Maresca’s side have shown flashes of brilliance this season, but they will need to be at their very best to get a result against Bayern. Palmer’s creativity and ability to deliver in big games could make all the difference in Munich.
