Chelsea have started the 2021-22 season brightly, and their recent draw against Liverpool despite playing with a man down showed their stubbornness at the back.
Thomas Tuchel has managed to transform this team into title challengers as winning the UEFA Champions League last season has now given the team a lot of belief.
The Blues broke their transfer record to sign Romelu Lukaku from Inter Milan, and strengthened their squad with the signing of Saul Niguez on deadline day.
With a balanced squad with several match-winners, Chelsea are expected to push Manchester City and Manchester United all the way for the Premier League title this season.
Let’s take a look at what could possibly be Chelsea’s strongest lineup this season.
Strongest possible Chelsea Lineup for the 2021-22 season
Goalkeeper
Edouard Mendy has been solid in goal since signing for the Blues in 2020, and he is the best option in goal. The Frenchman’s shot-stopping ability as well as distribution are second to none in the Premier League.
Defence
The trio of Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen, and Cesar Azpilicueta seem like the best fit for the three at the back system.
Tuchel has the option of using Thiago Silva as well, which will be handy considering the Blues will play a lot of games this season. Young Trevoh Chalobah was impressive in pre-season and in Chelsea’s opening game, so he might get a few games in the cup competitions.
Midfield
Marcos Alonso’s impressive form under Tuchel continues, and the Spaniard is expected to feature as the left wing-back. Reece James, who is suspended for the next game, is the best option for the right wing-back role.
Both wing-backs have pace to burn, can cross well, and have shown good tenacity under Tuchel.
Jorginho and N’Golo Kante are perhaps the best two for the central midfield role because of their tenacity and passing range. However, Tuchel might need to rotate Kante considering his recent injury history.
With Saul and Mateo Kovacic now available, Tuchel will not have to worry about the quality dropping after making the changes. Saul is a versatile player, and has the discipline to excel in a central midfield role alongside both Jorginho and Kante.
Attack
Romelu Lukaku is expected to lead the line when fit, and the duo of Mason Mount and Kai Havertz could play alongside him.
Timo Werner is a good option off the bench and his impressive form for Germany since Hansi Flick taking over bodes well for his Chelsea career.
Hakim Ziyech, Calum Hudson-Odoi and Christian Pulisic are other options Tuchel can consider in what is an embarrassment of riches really.
Strongest Possible Chelsea Lineup for the 2021-22 Season