Chelsea begin life without Enzo Maresca against Manchester City this afternoon.
The Blues parted company with their head coach on New Year’s Day with Strasbourg boss Liam Rosenior the front runner to replace him in the Stamford Bridge dugout.
For now, Chelsea are managerless and will today be led by Under-21 coach Calum McFarlane.
Up against Pep Guardiola in his first game in charge of a senior team, his team selection is unlikely to face too much scrutiny. But he will be tasked with picking someone to fill the void left by a suspension for Moises Caicedo.
The Ecuador international will serve a one-match ban as a result of a fifth booking of the season he picked up against Bournemouth.
Andrey Santos is in the frame to replace him although Reece James could also get the nod once again in a midfield role.
There could also be a problem at left-back. Marc Cucurella came off in the defeat to Aston Villa on 27 December, missing the draw with Bournemouth last time out.
The Spain international did return to training on Friday however and could be in contention today.
Cole Palmer is still play a full 90 minutes since returning from injury – he has not completed any game since September. But against his former side, today could be the day he is given a full run out.
For City, Rodri is firmly in contention to start his first game since October. The Spain international came off the bench against Sunderland midweek and while City were unable to break down the Black Cats that night, his performance suggested he is close to being back to his old self.
His return came with Nico Gonzalez picking up a knock at the Stadium of Light with Savinho also forced off that evening.
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They join John Stones and Mateo Kovavic on the injured list with Rayan Ait-Nouri and Omar Marmoush both away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Man City XI to face Chelsea – Metro prediction
Rodri’s return to the starting XI will be massive for City – keeping him fit for this ever-developing title race with Arsenal will be essential.
Chelsea XI to face Man City – Metro prediction
Estevao Willian had a fine game against Bournemouth which should justify another start this afternoon.
Man City vs Chelsea TV channel, kick-off time and live stream
City vs Chelsea kicks off at 5:30pm on Sunday 4 January.
You can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event with streaming also available through the Sky Go app and NOW TV for subscribers.
