Managerless Chelsea Face Lineup Crisis as Man City Showdown Looms

With Calum McFarlane serving as temporary manager, Chelsea embark on one of the Premier League's most challenging away fixtures this Sunday.

Following the surprising dismissal of Enzo Maresca, which sent shockwaves through the football community, Chelsea must navigate a difficult trip to Manchester City for their opening match of the new year. Academy boss McFarlane will oversee proceedings from the visiting dugout at the Etihad Stadium as the Blues seek just their third league win since the November international window.

Maresca's exit will have caught the Chelsea squad off guard, though they bear responsibility for their recent lackluster displays. The Blues have struggled at both ends of the pitch and must deliver marked improvements in Manchester to avoid further embarrassment.

Here's how Chelsea might set up on Sunday.

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

GK: Robert Sánchez—The Chelsea shot-stopper anticipates a busy afternoon at the Etihad, where he endured a nightmare outing last campaign. City seldom fail to find the net at home.

RB: Malo Gusto—Gusto will be concerned about the potential return of Jérémy Doku to City's first XI, though Phil Foden presents an equally daunting prospect. The French defender faces a challenging encounter.

CB: Wesley Fofana—Fofana displayed his poorest form against Newcastle but delivered solid showings versus Everton and Bournemouth recently. His main concerns remain inconsistency and injury troubles.

CB: Trevoh Chalobah—Containing Erling Haaland represents his season's sternest examination, and Chelsea's recent defensive frailties suggest Chalobah and company will find it difficult to silence the Norwegian striker.

LB: Marc Cucurella—Cucurella carries a fitness concern for Sunday, but with Jorrel Hato sidelined and limited alternatives available, the Spanish defender must feature if reasonably healthy.

DM: Reece James—The Chelsea captain will probably be deployed in midfield following Moisés Caicedo's costly suspension, leaving a significant void in the defensive midfield role.

DM: Enzo Fernández—The Argentine midfielder found the net for the first time since the Burnley clash when he netted Chelsea's second goal against Bournemouth. His primary focus will shift to defensive duties this weekend.

RW: Estêvão—The Brazilian youngster emerged as Chelsea's standout performer in the Bournemouth stalemate and merits consecutive starting opportunities. He'll face an engaging battle with fellow prospect Nico O'Reilly.

AM: Cole Palmer—Palmer has managed just one goal in five encounters against former club City, and Chelsea require their star performer to deliver on familiar territory. His midweek penalty conversion demonstrates his potential impact.

LW: Pedro Neto—Alejandro Garnacho struggled against Bournemouth and was substituted at the interval by Maresca. Neto, versatile across both flanks, could replace Jamie Gittens in Garnacho's absence.

ST: João Pedro—Liam Delap won't feature against his previous club as Pedro reclaims the central striker role. Chelsea will depend on the Brazilian to provide link-up play and ease pressure in Manchester.