Chelsea and Manchester City are both looking to move past their poor European performances during mid-week and get back on track in the Premier League. For the second straight year, City will not make the knockout stage of the competition, while Chelsea are in need of a lot of help on the final matchday to make the Round of 16.
Chelsea vs. Manchester City: Work your magic, Rafael Benitez
Rafael Benitez makes his debut as Chelsea manager against Manchester City, who were recently knocked out of Champions League.
Following Chelsea's 3-0 defeat at the hands of Juventus, Roberto di Matteo was sacked and replaced with Rafael Benitez, who has signed on until the end of the season. He's likely to reinstate Fernando Torres into the starting XI after the striker was left on the bench for the Blues' defeat in Turin.
Chelsea are winless in their last four games, while City have won their last two in a row, and they’re yet to be beaten in the Premier League.
Chelsea injuries and suspensions
Out: John Terry. In doubt: Frank Lampard.
Manchester City injuries and suspensions
Out: None. In doubt: Mario Balotelli, Gael Clichy, Vincent Kompany
Chelsea’s lineup is anyone’s guess with Benitez now in charge, but he probably won’t start either of Terry or Lampard. Mancini’s lineup as a crap shoot as well, with three of his top players needing late fitness tests.
Match date/time: Sunday, 4 p.m. local, 11 p.m. ET
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London, England
TV: FOX Soccer (U.S.), Sky Sports 1 (U.K.), Sportsnet World (Canada)
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