The anticipation is building! Chelsea FC is gearing up for a clash against Arsenal, and the big question on everyone's mind is: who will make the starting XI? Enzo Maresca has some tough decisions to make, and the predicted lineup is already sparking debate.
Maresca faces a crucial choice: Will he unleash Palmer from the get-go against the Gunners? In the recent 3-0 Champions League victory over Barcelona, Pedro Neto led the attack, while Joao Pedro and Liam Delap watched from the bench. However, Maresca is likely to bring back one or both of them for the Arsenal match.
The center-back pairing of Trevoh Chalobah and Wesley Fofana, which performed admirably against Barcelona, might be retained, though Tosin Adarabioyo and Josh Acheampong are ready to step in.
Expect to see Robert Sanchez in goal and Marc Cucurella at left-back, alongside midfielders Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez. Reece James and Malo Gusto alternated between right-back and central midfield against Barcelona. But, Fernandez could shift back to partner Caicedo, potentially allowing Maresca to deploy Palmer in the No. 10 role.
Here's where it gets interesting... There's a strong push for Estevao Willian to start after his goal-scoring performance on Tuesday. But Maresca might opt for Neto on the right wing, given his experience compared to the young Willian in high-stakes matches.
On the left flank, Maresca has the option of choosing between Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens.
But here's a critical update: Unfortunately, Romeo Lavia, Dario Essugo, and Levi Colwill remain sidelined due to long-term injuries. However, there's a glimmer of hope as Essugo returned to team training on Friday following his thigh surgery back in September.
Predicted Chelsea XI (4-2-3-1):
- Sanchez
- James
- Chalobah
- Fofana
- Cucurella
- Fernandez
- Caicedo
- Neto
- Palmer
- Garnacho
- Joao Pedro
Injured: Lavia, Colwill, Essugo
Match Details:
- Time and Date: 4:30pm GMT, Sunday November 30, 2025
- Venue: Stamford Bridge
- TV: Sky Sports
What do you think? Will Maresca make the right calls? Do you agree with the predicted lineup? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
