The Premier League returns with a bang this weekend as Chelsea travel to face Leicester City at the King Power Stadium in Saturday’s early kick-off. The match carries huge significance at both ends of the table, with the Blues chasing down leaders Manchester City in the title race while Leicester scrap for survival near the foot of the standings.
Chelsea Aim to Keep Pace with Man City
Under new manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea have emerged as the closest challengers to Pep Guardiola’s seemingly unstoppable Manchester City this season. The London club currently sit second, just three points adrift of their title rivals. A victory over Leicester would move them level on points, at least until City play later in the day.
Much of Chelsea’s success can be attributed to Maresca implementing his attacking, possession-based philosophy at Stamford Bridge. The Italian coach, who previously worked under Guardiola at Man City, has gotten his new squad to gel quickly.
“We’re going to Leicester with only one objective – to win,” Maresca told reporters. “This is a crucial period and we can’t afford any slip-ups if we want to catch City. My players understand what’s at stake.”
– Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca
Injury Concerns for Blues
However, Chelsea have been dealt a blow with the news that influential midfielder N’Golo Kante is set to miss out with a hamstring injury sustained on international duty with France. His tireless running and ball-winning capabilities in the center of the park will be sorely missed.
There are also doubts over left-back Ben Chilwell, another key figure for the Blues. According to a close club source, the England international is touch-and-go as he battles to overcome a minor ankle problem. Maresca may have to shuffle his pack.
Foxes Fighting for Survival
While Chelsea have lofty ambitions at the top end of the Premier League, opponents Leicester find themselves in a very different situation. The 2016 champions are hovering precariously above the relegation places after a disappointing campaign.
Following their shock 3-0 home defeat to fellow strugglers Bournemouth last time out, Leicester sit 16th, just three points above the bottom three. With tough fixtures ahead, starting with the visit of Chelsea, manager Brendan Rodgers knows they need to start picking up points quickly.
“We’re well aware of the challenge we face against a top side like Chelsea, but we have to approach it without fear,” said Rodgers. “Our home form is going to be vital and we need the King Power Stadium rocking to make it as uncomfortable as possible for them.”
– Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers
Vardy Holds the Key
If the Foxes are to trouble Chelsea’s backline, much will depend on the evergreen Jamie Vardy. The 36-year-old striker has been Leicester’s talisman for the best part of a decade and remains their most potent goal threat.
Vardy’s pace and movement could cause real problems for the Blues’ high defensive line if Leicester can get their transition game going. The veteran poacher has netted seven times in the league this term and would dearly love to add to that tally in such a high-profile clash.
Maresca Returns to Familiar Territory
Interestingly, the match will see Enzo Maresca return to the club where he first cut his teeth in English football. The Chelsea boss spent a season on loan at Leicester from Juventus way back in 2001-02 when they were in the old First Division.
“Leicester is a club close to my heart as it’s where my journey in this country began all those years ago,” Maresca reflected. “But there will be no room for sentiment come kickoff. My only focus is on guiding Chelsea to an important victory.”
– Enzo Maresca
With so much on the line for both teams, an absorbing encounter awaits. Chelsea’s superior quality should give them the edge, but Leicester will be desperate to rise to the occasion on home soil. It promises to be a fascinating sub-plot in the wider context of the captivating Premier League season.
