How Chelsea could line up vs. Man City in opening Premier League weekend: Will Neto make his debut?

Chelsea start their 2024/25 Premier League campaign by hosting the champions, Manchester City.

Enzo Maresca, a former assistant of Pep Guardiola’s, is making his debut as a Premier League coach after he made the move from Leicester City following Mauricio Pochettino’s departure at the end of last season.

Maresca and Chelsea have been busy in the transfer market to say the least, with the latest signing coming from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Pedro Neto.

Here’s how Chelsea may line up to face the champions.

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Chelsea lineup, starting 11, team news vs. Man City

Pedro Neto, who transferred from Wolves for £54 million, is looking to make his debut, while Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who previously excelled under Maresca at Leicester, is also poised for his first competitive outing.

Reece James is out due to a four-match suspension carried over from last season, coupled with a hamstring injury that might sideline him until September.

Conor Gallagher, who served as captain in James’ absence last year, is currently training with the Under-21s amid speculation of a move to Atletico Madrid.

Nicolas Jackson made his return from ankle problems during a pre-season match against Inter Milan, and Axel Disasi was back on the bench, with Wesley Fofana making his first appearance in over a year.

Chelsea predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Sanchez (GK) — Gusto, Badiashile, Colwill, Cucurella — Fernandez, Caicedo — Neto, Palmer, Mudryk — Jackson.

Injured: Reece James

Suspended: Reece James