3 things Conte absolutely must do for Chelsea to beat Man City on Saturday
Antonio Conte must be feeling very confident going into this weekend’s clash against Man City…
Tottenham became the latest victim of Conte’s Italian revolution last weekend – and it would take a bold fan to bet against the Blues doing the same to Man City on Saturday.
Up and down the pitch, Chelsea have been a perfectly oiled and well-drilled machine – with everyone from Victor Moses to Diego Costa putting in stellar performances each and every week.
Antonio Conte, of course, will not be taking this weekend’s clash lightly, though, and Man City will pose a very significant threat to his Premier League dominance.
There are a few things that, if Conte wants to remain on such a good run of form, he simply must do – and they might not be too popular with fans…
With that said, here are 3 things Conte absolutely must do for Chelsea to beat Man City on Saturday
More of the Same
It might seem obvious, but what Antonio Conte is doing at the moment is clearly working – so it would make sense to continue in that vein.
This is important as tactics often shift and change when faced with a particularly seismic challenge – and Man City can definitely be described as such.
Conte’s system has worked against the likes of Man Utd and Tottenham, and whilst Man City are on a level above those 2 – there is no reason why it wouldn’t continue to work against Pep Guardiola.
Keep doing what you’re doing, Antonio.
Start Willian
This will likely be unpopular – but Conte really should reinstate Willian for the trip to the Etihad.
The Brazilian hasn’t featured much this season, and his teammates have done well in his absence – but his qualities would be perfect when playing the Citizens.
Guardiola will set his side up very offensively, and with the likes of De Bruyne and Aguero running down the flanks – Moses and Alonso will undoubtedly need some help.
It’s unfair on Pedro to see him dropped, but his defensive inefficiency will be exposed if he plays.
Prioritise Defence
Conte needs to focus on defending well against City – as there is not a more deadly team in the Premier League.
Don’t be surprised if the Blues harp back to life under Mourinho – with Conte likely to shut up shop and defend well against City first and foremost.
Chelsea have been exciting in recent weeks, but you would expect that to change somewhat – especially early on in the game.
If he doesn’t shut up shop, then Aguero could pounce.