Pep Guardiola receives Reece James and Chelsea starting XI hints for FA Cup final | OneFootball

Chelsea are weighing up a tactical switch to a back-three for Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley, as per a new report.

The west London outfit are bidding for cup glory to mask a disappointing Premier League campaign, with Pep Guardiola and co looking for a second trophy of the season amidst slim hopes of a domestic treble this term.

City were held to a 1-1 draw by Calum McFarlane‘s men in January but beat the London Blues 3-0 at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League in April, with Nico O’Reilly, Marc Guehi and Jeremy Doku on the scoresheet.

The two sides have not met since, though both have navigated demanding run-ins – with City locked in a heated title race with Arsenal in the final 10 days of the season and Chelsea chasing European football for the 2026-27 campaign.

Report: Chelsea weighing up back three for Wembley

According to Telegraph Sport’s Matt Law, Chelsea are considering deploying a back three at Wembley on Saturday, with McFarlane assessing how best to set up his side to contain City’s attacking threat while remaining dangerous going forward.

The potential tactical switch suggests Chelsea are approaching the final with respect for City’s wide players – particularly Rayan Cherki and Doku, who have been in destructive form in recent months and were rested for the sky Blues’ midweek against Crystal Palace.

A back-three would offer additional cover against City’s tendency to overload wide areas and attack in behind, with the likes of Antoine Semenyo, Savinho and Omar Marmoush also in fine form heading into the final in London.

The report adds that Reece James is expected to be fit to start for Chelsea – a significant boost for the Blues ahead of a monumental fixture that can change the complexion of a topsy-turvy season on and off the pitch at Stamford Bridge.

What does the Chelsea team news mean for City?

James’ expected availability is the more significant piece of news for City’s preparations. The England right-back is one of the most dangerous attacking full-backs in the Premier League when fit – and his presence gives Chelsea a genuine threat down City’s left side – where Nathan Ake or Josko Gvardiol are likely to be tested throughout.

Guardiola has already spoken about the fatigue advantage Chelsea hold heading into Saturday’s final, with the Blues having had a full week of preparation at home while City have navigated a gruelling Premier League run-in.

Whatever system McFarlane ultimately deploys, City will need to be at their very best to claim a trophy Guardiola has described as “the cathedral of English football”.

His side have lost the last two FA Cup finals and the Catalan has made clear he intends to put that right on Saturday.