"Pray for Arsenal", "That's good to see" - Chelsea fans surprised by Enzo Maresca's starting XI decision

Chelsea fans have been left surprised by Enzo Maresca's decision to start Estevao Willian against Arsenal in the Premier League. Many claim it was the right call, adding that it would see them get all three points against the Gunners.

Maresca has kept faith in Robert Sanchez after his impressive run in all competitions. Malo Gusto starts as the right back today, with Marc Cucurella keeping his place on the left, while Wesley Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah are the center-backs chosen today.

Moises Caicedo and Reece James team up in the midfield, and they are supported by Enzo Fernandez. The decision sees Maresca sticking with the same defense and midfield as their 3-0 win over Barcelona during the week.

The attack sees one change, with Joao Pedro coming in for Alejandro Garnacho. Estevao Willian keeps his place on the right wing, and Pedro Neto moves to the left wing, after playing down the middle in the Barcelona win.

Chelsea fans are excited by the starting XI and have posted:

Maresca spoke about Palmer in his press conference, confirming that the Chelsea star was available to start against Arsenal, but he has only made the bench for the start of the game. He said (via Football London):

"He's available for both [to start or come off the bench]. Everyone is happy. The teammates are happy. We are all happy and the most important thing is that Cole is happy because at the end, a football player, they want to play games and make sessions every day. He is, as you said, probably our best player. We are happy that he is back. Now we need to give him time to be 100% fit. He has done fantastic in the past and no doubt he is going to do very well for this club in the future."

Maresca's side are six points behind Arsenal ahead of kick-off, sitting third in the table after Manchester City defeated Leeds United to jump ahead.

Chelsea not thinking about the Premier League title right now, says Enzo Maresca

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has said that his side are not focused on the Premier League title race right now. He said that they will shift focus depending on their position in March and April, and said (via Football London):

"We will see where we are by March and April. Then we will see. I think these players in 18 months together showed they can beat teams. PSG in the Club World Cup final, this season Liverpool and Barcelona, we compete always and it's important to show we can compete against any team. I think we are in the right direction."

Chelsea can move three points behind Arsenal with a win, while the Gunners can pull away with a seven-point lead over second-placed Manchester City if they manage to collect all three points.

Edited by Sripad