How Chelsea could line up against Arsenal

By Ben Knapton | 10 May 2021 15:28, Last updated: 04 Jun 2025 23:31

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel will have to cope without Mateo Kovacic and Andreas Christensen for Wednesday's Premier League visit of Arsenal.

The former is nearing a return to action from a thigh issue but will not be risked with the FA Cup final in mind, while Christensen was taken off just before half time against Manchester City with an issue in the same area.

With Thiago Silva also likely to be spared before the weekend's showpiece event, Kurt Zouma is the most likely candidate to feature alongside Antonio Rudiger and Cesar Azpilicueta in the back three.

Billy Gilmour played the full 90 minutes against Man City but might make way for the returning Jorginho, while Ben Chilwell should earn a recall to the left after being rested entirely at the weekend, meaning that match-winner Marcos Alonso could drop out.

Reece James should be fit enough to continue on the opposite side, while Hakim Ziyech will hope that his goal at the Etihad Stadium has seen him do enough to warrant another start in quick succession.

Mason Mount was nowhere to be seen against Man City so will certainly return here - most likely over Christian Pulisic - while the returning Kai Havertz could displace Timo Werner at the forefront of the attack.

Chelsea possible starting lineup: Mendy; Azpilicueta, Zouma, Rudiger; James, Jorginho, Kante, Chilwell; Ziyech, Mount; Havertz

> Click here to see how Arsenal could line up for this clash