In what was/is expected to be a busy transfer window of rebuilding, Chelsea haven’t made any major signings yet. In fact, they are the only Premier League club not to do so a month into the transfer window. Raheem Sterling’s switch from Man City to Chelsea looks imminent, but it’s not official yet.
At the other side of transfer affairs, Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen have completed respective moves to Real Madrid and Barcelona. And so, if Chelsea were to play a Premier League game tomorrow, here is how they will most likely line up.
Goalkeeper: Edouard Mendy
It’s hands-down an undisputed choice. Kepa Arrizabalaga is rumoured to leave Stamford Bridge this summer. Even if he doesn’t, he isn’t likely to force Mendy out, despite the latter suffering a slight dip in form.
Right Wing-back: Reece James
Reece James is firmly the number one choice in the right wing-back spot. Cesar Azplicueta and Dujon Sterling (if both stay) are back up options, but James has rightfully made this position his own.
Right Centre-back: Trevoh Chalobah
Chalobah broke into the first team last season and has largely delivered solid performances ever since. Cesar Azpilicueta could be a back up to him or to James.
Centre-back: Thiago Silva
It’s staggering how good Thiago Silva has performed in his two seasons in England. With Chelsea short in the centre-back department, his experience and quality will be sorely relied upon.
Left Centre-back: Malang Sarr
With Rudiger gone, whoever fills in his boots will have a huge task. If a replacement is not signed, Malang Sarr looks like the most suitable replacement. His left-footedness will be an advantage.
Left Wing-back: Ben Chilwell
Having spent majority of last season on the treatment table, Chelsea will be delighted to have Chilwell’s services back. The England international is undoubtedly an upgrade to Marcos Alonso (who is expected to leave).
Central Midfielder: N’Golo Kante
Injuries plagued Kante’s season, but when fully fit, he is still the best in the business. However, age is catching up with the little Frenchman and he is out of contract next season.
Central Midfielder: Connor Gallagher
Gallagher drew a lot of praises for his excellent performances on loan at Crystal Palace. He is now expected to play a role in what is otherwise an ageing Chelsea midfield.
Right Wing: Mason Mount
Mount has been getting better every season and the same will be expected of him this season. The Englishman can play in midfield as well as a further forward, but is guaranteed to be a regular starter.
Striker: Kai Havertz
Even when Romelu Lukaku was at the club, Havertz had pretty much relegated him to the bench. Now with him gone, Havertz is the lone candidate to lead Chelsea’s line.
Left Wing: Christian Pulisic
This is perhaps the most open position and one that is expected to be filled by Raheem Sterling. But as it stands, it could be occupied by Pulisic, Timo Werner or Callum Hudson-Odoi, who is returning after injury.