Chelsea Set to Unleash Major Squad Overhaul Against Newcastle After Cup Triumph

Chelsea aim to secure their third consecutive win across all tournaments as they travel to face Newcastle United in Saturday's early Premier League fixture.

The Blues experienced a challenging beginning to December but have regained their footing with successive victories. Their 2–0 success against Everton last weekend was complemented by a 3–1 triumph over League One side Cardiff City in midweek, securing their spot in the Carabao Cup semi-finals.

Chelsea will be eager to maintain their positive momentum, and Enzo Maresca will seek to minimize any external disruptions before heading to St James' Park. Speculation linking him to the Manchester City position as Pep Guardiola's potential successor won't have been ideal preparation as he plans to make ten alterations from the Cardiff victory.

Here's how Chelsea might set up on Tyneside.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs. Newcastle (4-2-3-1)

GK: Robert Sánchez—The Spanish goalkeeper has shown fewer mistakes compared to last campaign, though he remains susceptible to occasional lapses. Newcastle will attempt to pressure Sánchez whenever possible.

RB: Reece James—With Moisés Caicedo's return to the midfield, James could shift back to right-back to deal with international colleague Anthony Gordon, though Malo Gusto may feel disappointed after his goal and assist performance against Everton last weekend.

CB: Trevoh Chalobah—Chalobah has been a consistent presence in Chelsea's defense since Levi Colwill's ACL setback, impressing with his reliable performances. He'll face a challenge from the imposing Nick Woltemade on Saturday.

CB: Wesley Fofana—Fofana recorded 20 defensive actions against Everton in an outstanding display that helped preserve a clean sheet for the French defender.

LB: Marc Cucurella—Anthony Elanga's pace and dynamism presents difficulties for any defender, but the exceptional Cucurella, among the globe's finest left-backs, has previously neutralized more dangerous wingers than the Swedish player.

DM: Moisés Caicedo—The Ecuadorian midfielder might be the sole player retained from the Cardiff match, returning to Premier League action following a three-match suspension.

DM: Enzo Fernández—Fernández confronts a significant duel with international opponent Bruno Guimarães as both players aim to contribute offensively while maintaining defensive solidity.

AM: Cole Palmer—Palmer returned to scoring form last weekend and earned selection in FIFA Best Men's 11 for 2025 during the week.

RW: Pedro Neto—The Portuguese winger has become vital to Chelsea with his pace and determination on the right flank, making a significant impact off the bench against Cardiff by netting a crucial second goal for the Blues in Wales.

ST: João Pedro—While Liam Delap should return after Christmas to provide Chelsea with additional attacking options, Pedro will start against Newcastle after his substitute appearance against Cardiff where he provided an assist.

LW: Alejandro Garnacho—Garnacho was the standout performer as a midweek substitute, scoring twice in Cardiff to propel Chelsea into the semi-finals. After missing a clear chance against Everton last weekend, the double strike provided a much-needed confidence boost for the summer acquisition.