Chelsea will want to put down a marker when they face Manchester City in the lunchtime kickoff on Saturday. Thomas Tuchel’s side are the favourites heading into this weekend’s encounter following their convincing win over Tottenham last weekend.

Kepa Arrizabalaga could well keep his place in goal as there are still major doubts over the fitness of Edouard Mendy. Tuchel is expected to switch to a back three after experimenting with a four in the Carabao Cup, so Cesar Azpilicueta could come in alongside Thiago Silva and Antonio Rudiger.

Reece James is usually deployed to good effect against City as the right wingback, with Marcos Alonso lining up on the other flank.

In midfield, N’Golo Kante will be recalled after his important performance in the second half versus Spurs. The Frenchman is likely to play with Jorginho, meaning Mateo Kovacic will drop to the bench.

Up front, Romelu Lukaku is expected to lead the line, with Kai Havertz and Mason Mount coming in to play as the “half tens”.

Chelsea’s Predicted XI To Face Manchester City:

Kepa, James, Azpilicueta, Silva, Rudiger, Alonso, Kante, Jorginho, Mount, Lukaku, Havertz