Defenders
Conte has a predilection to playing 3 at the back, and the next Chelsea manager has sprung a bit of a surprise by only naming four centre-backs in his squad. Given his Juventus links, it is no surprise to see an all-Juventus backline, with Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini being undoubtedly Conte’s first-choice backline.
Being left-footed, Chiellini occupies the left-side of the central backline, with Bonucci patrolling the centre and Barzagli occupying the right centre-back role. The trio have enjoyed a stunning season, conceding only 20 times in 38 games in Serie A, despite an error-strewn start to the league season.
Ogbonna is the only other recognised centre-back in the squad, which raises concerns, but Conte could play De Rossi or Motta in an emergency, or have the option to shift to a 4-4-2, with Darmian, De Sciglio and Florenzi being available as fullbacks in a 4-4-2 system, although Conte rarely uses the formation.
Coupled with Buffon, the centre-backs form a back four that have played together all season, breaking records along the way to a domestic double. They have a telepathic understanding, covering excellently for each other and Conte will no doubt count on them for Italy to stand any chance of winning the trophy,
