Chelsea head into Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City with several injury concerns, but interim head coach Calum McFarlane has received timely boosts ahead of the biggest game of the club’s season.
The Blues travel to Wembley hoping to upset Pep Guardiola’s side and secure silverware alongside Europa League qualification after a difficult domestic campaign.
Although Chelsea remain outsiders against a Manchester City side chasing another major trophy, the possible return of several first-team players could significantly strengthen McFarlane’s options.
Robert Sanchez set for return in goal
Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is expected to return to the starting lineup after missing Chelsea’s 1-1 Premier League draw with Liverpool due to a head injury.
The Spaniard suffered a collision against Nottingham Forest earlier this month and was unavailable at Anfield as a precaution, but he has since resumed training and is likely to reclaim his place between the posts if he passes a final fitness assessment.
That would see Filip Jorgensen drop back to the bench after deputising against Liverpool.
Pedro Neto and Garnacho boost for Chelsea
Two major attacking reinforcements could also return for Chelsea this weekend.
Pedro Neto and Alejandro Garnacho have both resumed training after recovering from muscle injuries that ruled them out against Liverpool.
However, it remains unclear whether either player is fully ready to start such a high-intensity final.
McFarlane may decide to stick with the attacking setup that earned a respectable draw at Anfield, particularly after Marc Cucurella impressed in an advanced role on the left flank.
Cole Palmer is expected to remain one of Chelsea’s key attacking threats against his former club. The England international could operate from the right side if Enzo Fernandez keeps his place in the No.10 role following his winning goal in the FA Cup semi-final victory over Leeds United.
Reece James pushing for starting role
Chelsea captain Reece James has also handed McFarlane a huge selection boost.
The defender has reportedly trained well throughout the week and is expected to return to the starting XI against City.
Whether James starts at right-back or in central midfield remains one of the biggest tactical decisions facing Chelsea ahead of the final.
If James partners Moises Caicedo in midfield, Andrey Santos would likely make way. Alternatively, Malo Gusto could drop to the bench if James returns to his more familiar right-back position.
Colwill and Fofana expected to anchor defence
Levi Colwill made his first start in 10 months against Liverpool following his recovery from a long-term knee injury and produced an encouraging display at the heart of Chelsea’s defence.
The England international is expected to retain his place for the final alongside either Wesley Fofana or Trevoh Chalobah.
Meanwhile, Jorrel Hato could slot in at left-back if Cucurella continues further forward in attack.
Benoit Badiashile remains a major doubt due to illness and may not recover in time for Wembley.
Joao Pedro to lead the line
Joao Pedro is expected to spearhead Chelsea’s attack once again.
The Brazilian has enjoyed an impressive campaign in front of goal, scoring 20 times in all competitions, including two goals in the FA Cup.
Former Manchester City striker Liam Delap is likely to provide attacking depth from the bench against his old club.
Chelsea injury news vs Man City
| Player | Injury | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Estevao Willian | Hamstring/Knee | Out |
| Jamie Gittens | Hamstring | Out |
| Jesse Derry | Head injury | Out |
| Benoit Badiashile | Illness | Major doubt |
| Robert Sanchez | Head injury | Available |
| Pedro Neto | Muscle injury | Available |
| Alejandro Garnacho | Muscle injury | Available |
Chelsea predicted lineup vs Man City
Chelsea possible starting XI:
Sanchez; Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, Hato; James, Caicedo; Palmer, Fernandez, Cucurella; Joao Pedro.
Can Chelsea upset Guardiola’s Man City?
Manchester City may enter Wembley as favourites, but Chelsea have already shown during this season’s cup run that they can rise to the occasion under pressure.
The Blues will likely rely on defensive discipline, quick transitions and moments of quality from Palmer and Joao Pedro if they are to challenge Guardiola’s relentless machine.
And with several important players potentially returning at the perfect time, Chelsea fans will believe another famous FA Cup final upset may still be possible.