Reece James decision, Nkunku's warning and Madueke's judgement: Chelsea's best XI ahead of Liverpool

Now the season truly begins for Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who welcomed Reece James back to team training ahead of the pivotal Premier League game against Liverpool at Anfield. The upcoming stretch of games will reveal how strong this team is mentally, but there is also the challenge of how Maresca will rotate the squad effectively and keep everyone satisfied.

For the first time in a long while, the Chelsea manager has every member of his first-team squad available. This means some very talented players will miss out on minutes, but that’s part of being at a big club. As we look ahead to what promises to be an exciting few months, here is Chelsea’s strongest XI when everyone is fit:

Robert Sanchez

Sanchez has his shortcomings, but he is a brilliant shot-stopper. Almost every game shows why he’s highly rated within the technical team, although some fans feel the club could aim higher. With the current squad, he is definitely the best goalkeeper available.

Reece James

This choice may seem harsh on Malo Gusto, who has softened the blow of James’s absence. However, when James is fit, he’s one of the best fullbacks in the world. The big question is whether he can return to his previous level before the injuries.

Marc Cucurella

The greatest compliment a player can receive is turning booing fans into supporters, and Cucurella has successfully done that. It’s easy to forget that just last year, Manchester United considered taking him on loan as he wasn’t favoured at Chelsea. He’s worked hard and turned his situation around.

Levi Colwill

What a star he will be for the club. Fearless, robust, and possessing one of the finest left feet you’ll find in a centre-back. It’s easy to see why Roberto De Zerbi was eager to keep him at Brighton.

Wesley Fofana

You don't just come back from a knee injury and play as if you’ve never been sidelined, but Wesley is doing just that. He’s proving that a player can return to high-level football even after a long injury layoff.

Moises Caicedo

Caicedo continues to show flashes of brilliance, though he can be inconsistent. When he’s on form, he is a key asset for Chelsea, and there is no doubt he will become one of the best in the team.

Enzo Fernandez

The Argentine midfielder is still waiting for his breakthrough moment, but his passing range is unmatched in the squad. That quality is why he gets the nod over others like João Félix.

Cole Palmer

One of the best signings in Premier League history. A fantastic acquisition, and there are even rumours that Manchester City may be willing to break the bank to bring him back.

Noni Madueke

Noni is easily Chelsea’s most improved player. He has competed with big names and come out on top. As a winger who thinks like a forward, he has sharpened his overall game, playing for England and even helping out defensively.

Jadon Sancho

This is a tough call, given he’s had only three good games for Chelsea. If he performs like he did at Manchester United, there could be problems, but given his talent, he makes the cut.

Nicolas Jackson

I think Jackson is underrated in this Chelsea side. He has come in and scored goals, facing scepticism along the way but proving his critics wrong. The pressure of leading the line for Chelsea can be immense, but he has handled it well and is thriving, earning his place as the club’s main striker.