Could this be Chelsea’s lineup against Arsenal?

Central Midfield – N’Golo Kante

Kante had barely trained prior to the Huddersfield match, but he came into the first-team and fitted in seamlessly with an excellent performance which included the opening goal. In this 4-3-3 system he is used as a box-to-box midfielder. This suits him because of his work-rate, anticipation and ability to break through the opposition with his dribbling. He complements Jorginho well because they make up for each other’s deficiencies by being experts in certain areas.

The World Cup winner will be important in controlling the central areas through his tackling, pressing and cutting off passing lanes. Ozil will drift to find space and he has the task of cutting off service to him in order to stifle Arsenal’s attack. Kante’s performance will have a major influence on the result.

Central Midfield – Jorginho

Jorginho is the deep-lying playmaker in the team so all the play goes through him as he recycles possession and keeps the ball circulating. His arrival makes implementing Sarri’s style much easier because of his extraordinary passing ability, which translates into a high volume of passes per match as well as being able to set the tempo.

City did have success pressing him high up the pitch in the Community Shield, so Arsenal could attempt to do the same but it will have to be organised otherwise he could play around them. His combinations with Kante and Mateo Kovacic will be key in penetrating central attacking areas.

Central Midfield – Mateo Kovacic

The Croatian only joined on loan from Real Madrid on deadline day as part of the deal for Thibaut Courtois, but he could be thrust into the starting lineup for Chelsea’s first major clash. He’s had even less of a pre-season than Kante due to the World Cup and his desire to leave Real Madrid. However, Sarri may risk him because there is no ideal player for this role out of his alternatives.

Ross Barkley played in this position against Huddersfield, but was relatively ineffective as he still adjusts to the requirements. Cesc Fabregas will struggle to keep up with the pace of the game in such an active role while Ruben Loftus-Cheek is likely to be seen as a risky option due to his age even though he has the talent for it. Therefore, Kovacic’s all-round skillset and high technical ability could see him brought in. A quick understanding with Jorginho and Hazard will be key.