Chelsea vs Man City Preview: Team News, Likely Line-ups & Predicted Score

Rafael Benitez takes charge of his first game as Chelsea boss when he welcomes Manchester City to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.

The former Liverpool manager was appointed as interim boss until the end of the season after owner Roman Abramovich sacked Roberto Di Matteo on Wednesday.

Di Matteo was relieved of his duties after the current European champions were left on the brink of elimination from the competition following Tuesday’s 3-0 defeat to Juventus, and Benitez was drafted in on Thursday to oversee the rest of the campaign.

The Spaniard’s opening game couldn’t get much harder as the Premier League champions come to town with the home side looking to end a four-game win-less run. The Blues trail new league leaders Man Utd by six points so they can close the gap to just three with a win this afternoon.

Team News

Chelsea captain John Terry remains out with a knee injury picked up against Liverpool two weeks ago. Gary Cahill and David Luiz are expected to continue their partnership at centre back.

Daniel Sturridge missed the midweek defeat to Juventus with a hamstring strain but Fernando Torres is likely to return to the starting line-up after being benched in Turin. Frank Lampard remains out.

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany is expected to miss the game with a knee injury picked up during their 1-1 draw with Real Madrid. Mario Balotelli is back in contention after missing the last two games with a back injury.

Defender Gael Clichy could also return after overcoming an ankle problem but Jack Rodwell and Micah Richards remain out.

Likely Line-ups

Predicted Score

A huge game at the Bridge and Rafa Benitez will have to use all his experience to outfox Roberto Mancini this afternoon. Both sides will be desperate for all three points to close the gap on United but we can see this game ending in a draw. Chelsea 1-1 Man City.

What would your team be and whats your score prediction? Get involved in the comments section.