Antonio Conte looks to have everyone available after wrapping up the Premier League title earlier this month, which could mean heartbreak for Cesc Fabregas against his old club.
The Spaniard has largely been behind Nemanja Matic and N’Golo Kante in the pecking order this season, and it seems unlikely that Conte will tinker with a winning formula for this huge game.
Although the Italian changed things around by benching Diego Costa and Eden Hazard in the semi-final victory over Tottenham, don’t expect anything but his first-choice line up here…
Defence
Sticking with the trusty back three that’s worked so well this season, Chelsea will likely not risk giving John Terry a chance of one last hurrah, or hand a chance to Nathan Ake, another player who started the semi-final win over Spurs.
Thibaut Courtois will just be hoping he gets better protection from the likes of Gary Cahill and David Luiz than he did when Arsenal put three past Chelsea at the Emirates in September.
Midfield
Fabregas has done all he can this season despite enjoying far fewer starts than usual, but it’s fair to say Chelsea have to go with their best midfield for this one, and for now that means Matic and Kante.
Arsenal have quality in attack in that central area, with the likes of Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez drifting in between the lines and capable of doing damage to thvery best on their day, so the more defensive duo of Matic and Kante makes sense for the Blues.
Fabregas has done well as an impact sub at times this season, however, so may yet have a say on the destination of the cup.
Who's going to lift the cup this Saturday?
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Chelsea
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Arsenal
