Chelsea head east for Thursday’s Europa Conference League clash with Astana at the Ortalyq Stadion in Kazakhstan, kicking off at 15:30 UK time. Four games, four wins—Enzo Maresca’s side have been flawless so far, and another victory would push them closer to sealing knockout qualification.
Rotation has been a theme in Europe for Maresca, and with momentum still high after recent results, the Blues should fancy their chances of extending their perfect run.
In goal, Filip Jorgensen could be given the nod ahead of Robert Sanchez, having regularly featured in continental fixtures. At the back, Malo Gusto may reclaim his place at right-back, while Renato Veiga could take over from Marc Cucurella on the opposite flank. Central defence is also expected to be freshened up, with Axel Disasi and Tosin Adarabioyo likely stepping in.
Midfield could see rest for regular starters Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, paving the way for Romeo Lavia to line up alongside Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Cesare Casadei’s red card against Heidenheim rules him out of contention.
Further forward, Noni Madueke is tipped to start on the right after impressing off the bench in the win over Tottenham. On the left, £45 million man Joao Felix looks set to replace Jadon Sancho, while Christopher Nkunku may operate in the number 10 role, tasked with unlocking the Kazakh defence.
Leading the line, Marc Guiu could once again get Conference League minutes. The young striker has shown flashes of promise since arriving from Barcelona, and this cold evening in Kazakhstan offers another chance to prove he belongs on Chelsea’s bigger stages.