The Battle of the Blues commences at Stamford Bridge today, with Chelsea’s first early kick off of the season. Both sides have started well this season, with Chelsea still unbeaten in all competitions, dropping points in just one of five league games. Last time out at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea were held to penalties against Aston Villa, with Reece James securing the victory for the Blues. An honourable mention goes out to Kepa Arrizabalaga, breaking the record for the most penalty shootout saves in Chelsea history, with seven. Kepa has been excellent when called upon since Tuchel arrived, and that is testament to his maturity.
Onto the Citizens, last time out in the league, the Sky Blues were held to a 0-0 draw at home to Southampton which shocked City fans as they thought it was three points in the bag. City have had mixed fortunes, with two 5-0 wins this season, as well as the aforementioned bore draw with the Saints, and a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham on the opening weekend. Pep Guardiola will be fixated on getting his side back on track, and a win against Chelsea will put them level on points with the Champions of Europe.
A Chelsea win today will make history as it could be the first time that Pep Guardiola has lost four consecutive games against any club in his career. Hopefully I haven’t jinxed anything there, and Chelsea can get the victory to extend their lead at the top of the table.
Team news and updates:
Thomas Tuchel has provided us with two updates regarding missing players. Mason Mount will join Christian Pulisic on the side lines following a knock he picked up against Villa on Wednesday. This could be a huge miss for Chelsea, but could also be a good rest for Mason who hasn’t been at his best as of late, something that can be expected following his unbelievable season last season.
Edouard Mendy will, however, take his place back between the sticks following his rib problem suffered against Zenit in the Champions League. It will be great to see Mendy back, as he is such a presence in goal, and was a huge part in keeping Manchester City quiet in Porto.
‘Everyone else [But Mount and Pulisic] is fine and Edouard Mendy is fit from his injury. He is available and will start for us tomorrow.’
Thomas Tuchel via chelseafc.com
Confirmed Lineup:
Players to watch:
Edouard Mendy: Mendy’s return is a huge plus for Chelsea, as the 29-year-old has been exceptional since he joined the Blues. Mendy has become one of the best goalkeepers in the world of football during the past year, and it is safe to admit that no one expected him to be this good. For that reason, and also on his one year anniversary at the club, he is my Chelsea player to watch.
Jack Grealish: Grealish has been solid since his £100m move from Villa to City, but has still lacked some of what all football fans know he is capable of. Grealish is my Man City player to watch as I’m interested to see how he performs on the massive occasion.
Score Prediction:
Chelsea 2-1 City
Lukaku, James
Grealish
Written by @mashgreaves
The Chelsea Spot 
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