We’re just a few hours away from the release of Chelsea’s teamsheet for the opening game of this Premier League season, and as always, this first team is a particularly interesting one.
As Nizaar Kinsella of the Evening Standard writes, Tuchel is likely to use this “huge” lineup to send messages – both to players and the board – with who he selects.
Some players will be left out because they’re pushing for moves away, and others will likely be included because the coach wants to show them they are going to be a part of his plans going forward.
There’s also the question of which new signings are up to speed and ready to play, and which need more time.
Those who have disappointed him in his 18 months at the club and have been replaced are about to find out definitively that they no longer have his trust, while plenty of youngsters will be hoping they’re chosen to step up and replace them.
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