Chelsea, facing League One leaders Cardiff City in the League Cup quarterfinal, are expected to heavily rotate their squad, but are still predicted to win despite Cardiff fielding a determined side hampered by injuries and the absence of loan star Omari Kellyman.
Chelsea travels to face League One leaders Cardiff City in the Carabao Cup quarterfinal, meeting for the first time since 2019.
Manager Enzo Maresca is expected to employ heavy rotation amid the festive schedule, likely benching star man Cole Palmer to manage his minutes.
Young talents like Jamie Gittens and Marc Guiu are candidates to start, while key players Levi Colwill and Roméo Lavia remain out injured.
Paragraph 2: Cardiff’s Challenge and Team News
Cardiff, who defeated Wrexham in the last round, face a tough task, compounded by key absences. Chelsea denied their request for loan star Omari Kellyman to play, while key man Rubin Colwill is out injured until February.
The home side will rely on the experience of defender Calum Chambers, who is expected to be a “calm presence” for their inexperienced yet dynamic defense.
Chelsea’s rotation introduces an element of risk, making the League One leaders “dangerous” as they have nothing to lose.
Despite their inconsistent form, needing a late winner against Wolves last round, Chelsea is still heavily favored to advance.
The overall expectation is for the Premier League side to secure passage to the semi-finals with a relatively comfortable 2-0 victory.