Game no 1 to save Sarri.
Chelsea got dumped out of their first cup competition on Monday as they lost to United at the Bridge by to 2 goals to nil. It was another performance which lacked fire and appetite but what annoyed the fans even more was Sarri’s team selection and substitutions of which the pinnacle was bringing on Zappacosta for Azpilicueta. The fallout has been renewed pressure from a section of the fans for Sarri’s sack and reports since Monday have stated that Sarri has two games to save his Chelsea career. While it would be sad if Sarri got the sack and while I still think that if he were to win this game and by some miracle beat City at the weekend he would at least see out the season but Sarri has not covered himself in glory with his stubbornness and refusal to change the lineup and listen to others.
Redemption no 1 comes today as Chelsea take on Malmo at home in the 2nd leg of the Europa League Round of 32. Chelsea won the 1st leg 1-2 but as Sarri said in his pre match press conference Malmo are very dangerous away from home and considering our current form they wont be too scared of coming to the Bridge. Sarri was questioned on his team selection and whether others should get a chance to play to which Sarri replied that when others have got a chance to play they have made mistakes as well and that is why he thinks it is a case of mentality rather than the players. The nonsensical question of Kante’s position was also asked. On his future Sarri stated that he sees himself staying at Chelsea for a long time because that is his vision and if given time it would bear results. Sarri stated that if Chelsea were to win two three games in a row then it would bring a positive mood which I agree with and there are no better games than the next three which if we were to miraculously win would mean that we reach the Round of 16, win the Carabao Cup and beat Spurs at home. I really should slap myself in the face but hope is something that everyone should have.
Chelsea Team Preview
Chelsea will be without Pedro, Zappacosta, and Kepa who is a doubt for the City game as well. The biggest quarrel among the Chelsea fan base both who want Sarri to stay and go has been the continued use of players like Alonso, Pedro, Willian etc when CHO, Ampadu, Christensen and the rest have remained on the bench. Sarri needs to change the personnel at least in this game if he wants to see a positive atmosphere in Stamford Bridge. A change of formation is a long shot though.
Starting XI Prediction
Chelsea need to win convincingly and IF players like CHO, RLC, and Emerson are given a chance they need to put in a good shift to stand a shot at playing on Sunday. COME ON YOU BLUES!!!!!
Park The Bus 