Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso faces Enzo Fernandez dilemma ahead of Fulham clash
Xabi Alonso is preparing to name his first competitive lineup as Chelsea manager when his side travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham in their Premier League opener on Monday night.
The fixture marks the dawn of a new era for both west London clubs.
Alonso will share the touchline with his former Liverpool and Spain team-mate Alvaro Arbeloa, who now occupies the home dugout.
The Spanish tactician is expected to persist with the 3-4-2-1 formation that brought him enormous success at Bayer Leverkusen.
Defensive reshuffle and new faces
Wesley Fofana is suspended following a red card on the final day of last season.
Club captain Reece James could drop into the back three to partner Levi Colwill and new signing Maxence Lacroix.
On the left flank, Marco Palestra is pushing to retain his wing-back role after Marc Cucurella was sold to Real Madrid.
Jorrel Hato provides another defensive option, though the Dutch youngster may be utilised primarily as a traditional full-back this term.
The Fernandez transfer saga
Central midfield presents a significant headache for the new Blues boss amid ongoing speculation surrounding Enzo Fernandez.
The Argentine international received a mixed reception of boos and cheers from supporters during the final pre-season victory over Real Sociedad.
Manchester City are reportedly circling the midfielder, despite an arbitrary transfer deadline passing without a formal bid.
If Fernandez is selected, he will likely partner Moises Caicedo in the engine room.
Record signing ready to launch
Chelsea possess an abundance of attacking riches to unleash against their local rivals.
Joao Pedro has showcased electric form throughout the summer and is primed to lead the line.
The Brazilian forward will be supported by Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers, who recently arrived in a staggering £117m record deal.
Highly-rated prospects Estevao and Geovany Quenda are expected to provide additional firepower from the substitutes’ bench.