Kovacic to be dropped, Barkley to start: Predicted 4-3-3 Chelsea XI to face Bournemouth

Chelsea must continue their winning streak in the Premier League as they face Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.

New manager Maurizio Sarri has guided us to three consecutive victories in three games so far. And a win against the Cherries should keep us tied at the top of the table, at least.

The Blues had a tough time in the previous game and needed a late own-goal from DeAndre Yedlin to see off Newcastle United.

Chelsea, however, dominated possession in that game but a repeat looks doubtful given that Bournemouth are unbeaten this season.

Sarri hasn’t made many changes to his team since the start of the season but we predict one player would force himself into the Blues XI for the clash against the Cherries.

Predicted Chelsea XI

Manager: Maurizio Sarri

Formation: 4-3-3

Kepa Arrizabalaga (GK)

The young keeper was caught out by a Joselu header last time around and needs to do better if he is to justify the world-record fee.

Cesar Azpilicueta (RB)

The right-back was our captain in the last game and he should start against Eddie Howe’s men.

Antonio Rudiger (CB)

Rudiger did have an effort cannon off the bar in our last game and the German should keep his spot for the match on Saturday.

David Luiz (CB)

The Brazilian seems to be a mainstay in the Chelsea team under Sarri and it would be a major surprise if he is dropped for the game.

Marcos Alonso (LB)

Alonso was the reason we got the two goals against Newcastle and there is no reason for him to not start against the Cherries.

N’Golo Kante (CM)

The Frenchman didn’t have the greatest game last time around but he must adjust to his new position sooner rather than later.

Jorginho (CM)

Possibly one of the best passing performances from a midfielder this season, Jorginho was excellent on the ball and has to start against the Cherries.

Ross Barkley (CM)

Chelsea should drop Mateo Kovacic and bring in Ross Barkley for the home clash. The Croatian didn’t do all that well last time around, providing scope for Barkley to start.

Eden Hazard (LW)

The Belgian was excellent in our 2-1 win over Newcastle as he opened the scoring via a penalty. Hazard will be one of the keys in breaking down a decent looking Bournemouth side.

Alvaro Morata (ST)

Morata struggled in the last game and needs some confidence in front of the goal. Hopefully, he can turn on the style and bag a few against the Cherries.

Read more: “I have always wanted to show myself at Chelsea” – 23-year-old loanee dreams of proving himself at Stamford Bridge

Pedro (RW)

It was tough to decide between the Spaniard and Willian but Pedro was decent in our game against Newcastle and should keep his place in the team.