In what could as well be a potential title deciding factor for both teams, Arsene Wenger and Jose Mourinho have not been on the best of terms in both of his Spells at Chelsea and with the new nickname ‘Specialist in Failure’ echoing around the media it will prove to be a battle of wits and skill.
Following their exit from the Champions League thanks to reigning champions Bayern Munich, Arsene Wenger’s side bounced back in suitable fashion by beating bitter North London rivals, Tottenham Hotspur by a solitary early goal by Tomas Rosiscky.
Chelsea on the other hand were dealt a blow by Aston Villa when Fabian Delph knocked in the ball late in the second half, but the storm passed as a brilliant display by every single member of the team against Turkish Giants Galatasary helped the blues progess into the last 8 of Europe’s elite club competition.
Going back domestic, Chelsea have the upper hand at the slightest as Arsene Wenger has never beaten Jose Mourinho in 11 attempts. Also, Mourinho has never lost a league match at the glorious Stamford Bridge where the match will be held.
Arsenal will also be facing the tightest defence in the Premier League; only conceding 23 goals through the course of the season.
On the bad side of town for the blues they will be without Brazilian duo Ramires and Willian following the latter’s stomp against Aston Villa while the former received a soft second yellow from referee Chris Foy, leaving room for either Lampard, Mikel or David Luiz to step in.
Also reports suggest that Arsenal winger Oxlade Chamberlain picked up a knock in the previous game. Matic will be fully fit to step into the game after a full week’s rest.
In the attacking suite, Schurrle is the ideal replacement for Willian but a surprise start from Salah could be in doubt.
Arsenal also have a fair share of bad news especially in the Midfield department the absence of Özil, Ramsey and Wilshere could be vital against a formidable Chelsea side. Arsenal could also pull off a surprise by playing January loanee Kim Kallstrom. Doubt it.
Chelsea vs Arsenal Predicted Line ups:
Chelsea;
Cech; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Matic David Luiz; Schurrle, Oscar, Hazard; EtoÂ’o.
Arsenal;
Szcenzcy; Gibbs, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Sagna; Arteta, Chamberlain, Carzola, Podolski, Rosiscky; Giroud.
Key Players:
Chelsea: Hazard, Matic and Eto’o
Arsenal: Chamberlain, Szcenzcy and Rosiscky
Will Mourinho remain Undefeated? Can Wenger break his Jinx? See you there On Saturday.
