Premier league

Ederson, Walker, Stones, Dias, Cancelo, Silva, Rodri, Gundogan, Mahrez, Gabriel Jesus, Foden

Elsewhere John Stones has committed his long-term future to the club and will be looking to continue his blossoming with Reuben Dias. Stones certainly showed his defensive ability at Euro 2020 and will be raring to go to play a pivotal role in the title defence. 

The big decision will be up front. Diogo Jota is in form but, following his brace in midweek, Roberto Firmino could come back into the team, with Sadio Mane on the left and Mo Salah playing off the right flank.

He will also miss the EFL Cup second-round match with West Brom on August 24.

Saliba has impressed during his loan spell at Marseille this season and, when asked whether the defender will be in manager Mikel Arteta’s first-team plans, Keown used the example of Manchester City, who possess a number of strong centre-backs:

Chelsea have two injury concerns. N’Golo Kante is a slight doubt with a hamstring injury but the Frenchman is said to be winning his fitness battle. There is less certainty about Edouard Mendy who injured his ribs when clashing with the goal post in the 2-1 loss to Aston Villa on Sunday.

De Jong’s future has also been called into question, with a number of Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool, said to be interested in his signature.

That result has left Liverpool sitting in third spot, one point behind the Blues and 11 points behind leaders Man City, albeit, Liverpool have one game in hand on Pep Guardiola‘s side.

Gavi also featured in all six of Barcelona’s Champions League group stage matches this campaign, and that has given him a lot of experience for a player of his age.

Augsburg’s managing director Stefan Reuter told the club’s official website: “We are delighted that Ricardo has decided to move to FCA despite the interest of numerous top international clubs.