In the upcoming game against Liverpool, Mourinho may have to field a “weakened” lineup which, valued at over 120M euros, most managers would gladly settle for. In fact, in addition to Ramires’ ban and Petr Cech’s injury, the Chelsea boss will likely not be able to play Hazard, the Belgian star.
"I would play with the players who are not going to play Wednesday."
Interestingly, the Special One has apparently asked Abramovich to surrender the title to Liverpool, which could be construed as a mind-game and part of the Portuguese’s repertoire. As the Chelsea manager has done several times in the past, he may be trying to supply Rodgers with a false sense of confidence, to gain a psychological upper-hand.
Mourinho's weakened team. Still over £100M
However, Mourinho also reminded the public that although he “lost four players, two with injuries and two with yellow cards [they] will fight.”
Needless to say, the upcoming fixture will be decisive for all three teams fighting for the title. While City supporters will be wearing blue this weekend, a win by Liverpool would almost inevitably end the title run and see the Reds clinching the title.
All that is left to do is to wait and see what will happen.
