UEFA Conference League: Chelsea set to make changes versus Gent
What's the story
Chelsea are preparing for a crucial match against Belgian club Gent, at Stamford Bridge on Thursday.
This marks their return to European football in the UEFA Conference League, after not participating last season.
The Blues are considered strong contenders for this third-tier competition.
Manager Enzo Maresca acknowledged the team's potential to make history by adding a Conference League title to their previous Champions League and Europa League victories.
Here's more.
Team strategy
Maresca plans major changes for upcoming match
Maresca is expected to implement significant changes in the team's lineup for the upcoming match.
This strategy follows his previous decisions where he altered 10 players against Brighton in the Premier League and made 11 changes in the preceding week against Barrow (League Cup).
The manager's rotation policy comes after a busy summer transfer window that left him with 29 senior players.
Squad selection
Key players excluded from Conference League squad
Cole Palmer, Romeo Lavia, Wesley Fofana, and Ben Chilwell were earlier excluded from Chelsea's Conference League squad.
Despite Palmer's impressive performances, his absence could open opportunities for other players like Mykhailo Mudryk.
"No. It is not about reliance [on Palmer]," Maresca said.
"We have already played some games without Cole. For sure, for us or any team in the world, Cole is an extra, something that you need. But we also need to protect some players. They need that."
Manager's confidence
Maresca's faith in underutilized players
Maresca also expressed confidence in Christopher Nkunku, a player who has not been frequently utilized in the Premier League.
He stated that "in football, things change quick," indicating potential opportunities for Nkunku and others not currently starting in the Premier League.
The manager dismissed any suggestions of a lack of confidence in Mudryk, stating that he needs to improve some aspects like all players but is satisfied with his work ethic.