Chelsea aim to bounce back from the September international break with a strong performance as they head to Bournemouth in the Premier League this Saturday.
The Blues have had a challenging 2024/25 season, with their only standout performance being a six-goal victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Manager Enzo Maresca is still working to implement his philosophy at the club, and with a squad brimming with young talent, adapting to a new style will take time.
Given the urgency to secure positive results and bolster support from the club’s hierarchy, Maresca faces a crucial task.
Here is how Chelsea might line up for their match against Bournemouth:
Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Bournemouth (4-2-3-1)
GK: Robert Sanchez– Despite starting the season with several goalkeepers, Chelsea have narrowed down their options. Sanchez remains Maresca’s preferred choice, though summer signing Filip Jorgensen is a close contender.
RB: Axel Disasi – Fitness concerns linger for Gusto, who suffered an injury in the draw against Crystal Palace. With Reece James sidelined, Gusto will be essential if he is fit to play.
CB: Wesley Fofana – Making a strong comeback after missing last season due to injury, Fofana has quickly won Maresca’s trust, despite competition from new recruit Tosin Adarabioyo.
CB: Levi Colwill – Colwill, who played as a left-back for England during the international break, will return to his preferred centre-back role against Bournemouth.
LB: Marc Cucurella – Cucurella, who struggled against Palace’s attack, will look to push forward more effectively this weekend.
DM: Moises Caicedo – As he adjusts to life at Chelsea, Caicedo’s role has become more crucial with Romeo Lavia injured. He will travel back from Ecuador for this fixture.
DM: Enzo Fernandez – Fernandez, who has shown flashes of his potential, will look to make a bigger impact. He also played for Argentina recently.
RW: Noni Madueke – After a hat-trick against Wolves and a strong performance against Palace, Madueke will bring high confidence to Bournemouth. He earned senior England minutes during the international break.
AM: Cole Palmer – Despite a minor fitness issue that led him to withdraw from England duty, Palmer is expected to be fit and will be key in unlocking Bournemouth’s defense.
LW: Pedro Neto – Neto has an assist against Wolves and will be aiming to find his rhythm in London. He will likely challenge Julian Araujo on the wing.
ST: Nicolas Jackson – Jackson has made an impressive start to the season with two goals and an assist. His pace and directness make him a constant threat in the final third.
