Garnacho Set to Shine in Debut Chelsea Start Against Lincoln
Following a successful first campaign, Enzo Maresca faces less intense expectations to secure trophies in his second season, though even a short period without silverware in west London can spark calls for managerial changes.
Despite reaching several League Cup finals in recent years, the Blues haven't claimed this trophy since 2015.
Their cup campaign this season kicks off with an away fixture against League One side Lincoln City, where Maresca will likely deploy the depth of his extensive but injury-affected roster on Tuesday evening. While some may doubt whether Chelsea possess sufficient elite talent to contend for the Premier League crown, they undoubtedly have the necessary depth to compete across multiple competitions.
Under Maresca's guidance, they've already demonstrated their cup credentials.
Here's how the Italian manager might line up the Blues at the LNER Stadium for this Carabao Cup third-round encounter.
Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Lincoln (4-2-3-1)
GK: Filip Jörgensen—With Robert Sánchez serving a suspension for Tuesday's cup match, backup keeper Jörgensen was destined to feature regardless.
RB: Malo Gusto—Reece James will be rested ahead of Saturday's encounter with Brighton & Hove Albion, allowing Gusto to slot into the starting eleven.
CB: Tosin Adarabioyo—While Chelsea fans remain unconvinced by Tosin's performances, Maresca continues to favor him over Wesley Fofana, who's being cautiously handled following recurring injury problems.
CB: Josh Acheampong—Trevoh Chalobah deserves a midweek break, opening the door for academy product Acheampong to secure his first start since the Premier League season opener.
LB: Jorrel Hato—The adaptable Dutch defender struggled in his last left-back appearance against Brentford, with Marc Cucurella remaining the preferred option. With limited alternatives available, Hato will probably start at fullback rather than his natural center-back position on Tuesday.
CM: Andrey Santos—Chelsea have a promising talent in Santos, and many fans are eager to see him feature after his composed substitute appearance at Old Trafford.
CM: Enzo Fernández—With Dário Essugo unavailable, Maresca might need to deploy one of his regular midfield starters in Tuesday's cup fixture. Fernández could be the sole player to keep his spot from Saturday's loss.
RW: Alejandro Garnacho—The Argentine was unused against his former team at the weekend, despite providing an assist versus Brentford previously and delivering impactful substitute performances in Munich.
AM: Facundo Buonanotte—There's no reason to risk Cole Palmer's fitness, creating an opportunity for loan signing Buonanotte to join Garnacho in making his maiden start for the club.
LW: Jamie Gittens—Gittens has experienced a quiet beginning to his Chelsea journey, but this represents an excellent chance for the gifted winger to find his rhythm and build some positive momentum.
ST: Marc Guiu—The returning forward was recalled specifically for occasions like this, with Maresca expected to deploy the ex-Barcelona player to allow João Pedro adequate recovery time before the weekend.
