Enzo Maresca learnt a lot about the character of his players when they left the field following a thrilling 2-1 victory against Liverpool.
Despite a mountain of injuries, as well as losing their last two centre-backs during the game, the Blues came through with a 2-1 victory against the champions.
Maresca handed starts to the likes of Josh Acheampong, whilst saw significant impacts off the bench from the likes of Romeo Lavia and Jamie Gittens, as well as match-winner Estevao Willian.
The international break now brings an opportunity for the Blues to allow some of their players some time to recover. There will be hope that the likes of Cole Palmer will be able to return to action when they face Nottingham Forest in two weeks time.
The Chelsea Chronicle have named the XI we believe Maresca must pick when the Blues are back in the Premier League.
The XI Chelsea must play after the international break
Robert Sanchez’s distribution has taken a positive turn since the Club World Cup, and he will continue between the sticks.
Chelsea chiefs have loved Maresca’s influence on Reece James, and his incredible performance in a multitude of positions will see him retain his place.
If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it at the back. Josh Acheampong will remain in the starting side after doing a good job up against Alexander Isak on Saturday.
The same story goes for Benoit Badiashile. Even though both were forced off with problems, it is believed they survived any significant injuries.
At left-back, one of the easiest choices sees Marc Cucurella start, although Jorrel Hato can be very pleased with his cameo against Liverpool.
Moises Caicedo’s incredible performance levels finally look to be getting the deserved recognition, and he will be hoping for an international break rest.
Alongside him, the Blues will be hoping they can add Romeo Lavia to their starting side. He impressed greatly when he came off the bench against Liverpool.
This will allow Enzo Fernandez more freedom going forwards, taking the central role that Malo Gusto operated in well against the Reds too.
The changes will come out wide, with match-winner Estevao moving over to the left of attack. He looked the most dangerous player on the pitch during his cameo, despite an embarrassment of riches on display from both sides.
The hope will be that Maresca can welcome Palmer back to the starting side too, with him working off the right in a similar way to how he did when they dismantled PSG in the Club World Cup.
Up front, Joao Pedro will start, and will hope that he can have some much-needed recovery time after he was not selected for the Brazil side.
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