As Chelsea prepares to embark on their Carabao Cup campaign, all eyes are on manager Enzo Maresca and his ability to continue his impressive start at Stamford Bridge. The Blues will face League Two leaders Barrow in what promises to be a thrilling contest, with Chelsea fresh off a 3-0 victory over West Ham in the Premier League, extending their unbeaten run to four games.
Maresca, having become the first manager since Pep Guardiola to win his first three Premier League away games at a new club, will likely field a rotated lineup, providing valuable minutes to fringe players seeking to impress.
Here’s a look at Chelsea’s predicted lineup for the match:
Chelsea Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
- GK: Filip Jorgensen
With Robert Sanchez firmly established as Chelsea’s number one, summer signing Filip Jorgensen is expected to start in goal. The cup competitions will be Jorgensen’s primary opportunity for game time this season. - RB: Axel Disasi
Due to injuries to Reece James and Malo Gusto, Disasi will continue his stint at right-back. Typically a center-back, Disasi will look to adapt to the role and contribute to both defense and attack. - CB: Tosin Adarabioyo
The first signing under Maresca, Adarabioyo is likely to replace Wesley Fofana in this fixture. He will be eager to showcase his defensive qualities, though Barrow may not provide too many attacking threats. - CB: Benoit Badiashile
With Levi Colwill in fine form, Badiashile has found himself on the sidelines. Tuesday’s match presents an opportunity for the French defender to prove his worth and reclaim a regular starting spot. - LB: Renato Veiga
The versatile Veiga, who can play both in defense and midfield, may take up an inverted left-back role. His adaptability could see him drifting into midfield when Chelsea is in possession. - CM: Moises Caicedo
Caicedo has quickly established himself as one of Maresca’s key players. He could captain the side against Barrow, providing stability and leadership in the middle of the park. - CM: Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
Limited to cameo appearances in the Premier League, Dewsbury-Hall will start alongside Caicedo. His dynamic playing style will allow him to roam forward and exploit spaces in Barrow’s defense. - RW: Pedro Neto
Neto will be looking to make an impression after limited game time, with Noni Madueke’s resurgence. The winger’s creativity and pace could cause problems for Barrow’s defense. - AM: Joao Felix
Felix, who recently returned to Chelsea, is still searching for rhythm. Though he faces stiff competition from Cole Palmer, this match offers Felix a chance to shine and push for a starting role in the league. - LW: Mykhailo Mudryk
Rumors of Mudryk’s departure from Chelsea continue to swirl as the Ukrainian winger struggles to find form. A standout performance could be pivotal for his future at the club. - ST: Christopher Nkunku
With Nicolas Jackson rested after a strong showing at the weekend, Nkunku is expected to lead the line. Operating as a withdrawn forward, the Frenchman will look to showcase his clinical finishing and link-up play.
