(09-03-2022, 10:27 PM)nefremo Wrote: I would play the same team that started today. This is our strongest lineup currently. We need to start in the CL with 3 points. Rotate a couple players against Sampdoria if need be. But not in the CL. Play the best 11 as this 1st game will set the tempo going forward. Everything is easier when you start off with 3 points. Most teams that do, end up advancing. And it makes sense why. From 18 possible points, starting off with 3 from the get-go alleviates pressure. This is also 1 of the two "easier" opponents in the group. So it's crucial to arrive at the Chelsea back to back games with maximum points and play "without" the pressure that a negative result could potentially throw us out.
We should not underestimate RB Salzburg, but I think there are players that struggle with the tight space of Serie A but can shine in CL where different types clash and everyone must get to know the style of other teams.
Last season, Diaz was a star, Ballo Toure was not bad, Messias scored and Saelemaekers performed well (so bad Rebic injured, he was also a star). And it was against the toughest teams possible in CL group stage.
So, some rotation is not bad, IMO.
EDIT: my choice
-------------------Mike-------------------
---Cal-------Kjaer-----Tom-----Theo--
-------Pobega---------Tonali-----------
---Saele---------CDK----------Leao----
------------------Giroud-----------------
Kjaer & Pobega for height and physical (Bennacer played 90 min against Inter)
CDK for CL experience and creativity because of no Ben
Saele is fresher than Messias, Leao & Giroud is still needed
Then: Gabbia for Tom, Dest for Cal, Ballo-Toure for Theo or Leao, Messias for Saele, Diaz for CDK, Origi for Leao or Giroud