Ben Chilwell missed out on an FA Cup final reunion with his former club Leicester City due to the extra physicality and experience that Marcos Alonso offers Chelsea.
That's according to Thomas Tuchel, as the Blues target a first piece of silverware under their German head coach.
Chelsea made five changes to their line-up ahead of the Wembley showpiece as Antonio Rudiger, former Leicester midfielder N'Golo Kante, Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner came into the side - alongside Alonso.
Kurt Zouma, Chilwell, Billy Gilmour, Christian Pulisic and Kai Havertz were the five Chelsea players omitted.
After slipping to a 1-0 defeat against Arsenal last time out, the Blues took a blow to their top-four hopes. However, attentions are fixed firmly on victory beneath the famous arch this afternoon as Tuchel and Brendan Rodgers target a first trophy with their respective clubs.
Having made seven alterations against the Gunners, it's very much Plan A for Chelsea and Tuchel this afternoon, as 'cup goalkeeper' Kepa Arrizabalaga retains the gloves ahead of Edouard Mendy.
But it was the omission of Chilwell that was Chelsea's most eye-catching decision prior to kick-off.
Speaking to BT Sport, Tuchel said: "There are some other guys who feel hurt at the moment. They have the chance to come up from the bench and have a huge impact.
"We go for Marcos for a bit more height, more stability at set-pieces and a bit more experience.
"Yes and no [a response to Arsenal]. There was a drop in concentration and focus, maybe human between Real Madrid, Manchester City and the cup final, but it was a crucial match and we missed a big opportunity in the race for top-four.
"We were disappointed. I made my decisions and the team was not so sharp like normal. This is my responsibility and we arrive a bit angry in ourselves. It's good and everyone is fully awake and we feel ready."
On the return of fans, Tuchel said: "It's almost the real thing. Everyone is in blue. Both teams have the impression it's only for them. It's so, so much better than without spectators."
