Chelsea head to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for a fierce London derby on Premier League matchday 15.
It’s the first league clash of the campaign between the rivals, and the Blues will aim to claim all three points—not just to push their top-four ambitions, but also to hand Enzo Maresca his first statement victory over a city foe, after being held to a draw by Arsenal weeks ago.
The Italian boss is expected to shuffle his deck from the side that thrashed Southampton 5-1 in midweek. Here’s how Chelsea could line up against Spurs.
Goalkeeper – Filip Jorgensen was handed his first Premier League start at St. Mary’s, but Robert Sanchez is tipped to reclaim his spot between the sticks for the trip to north London.
Defenders – With Reece James still sidelined, Maresca could stick with Malo Gusto on the right and Marc Cucurella on the left. In central defence, Axel Disasi and Tosin Adarabioyo may step aside, with Benoit Badiashile and Levi Colwill likely to partner up.
Midfield – Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez have struck up a steady rhythm in the double pivot and should keep their places. Cole Palmer is set to slot in ahead of them as the creative heartbeat.
Attack – Noni Madueke’s goal and assist against Southampton should earn him the right-wing role again. On the opposite flank, summer signing Pedro Neto—acquired from Wolves for £54 million—could get the nod over Joao Felix.
Striker – Nicolas Jackson should spearhead the attack, with Christopher Nkunku an option off the bench. Jackson netted a hat-trick away to Spurs last season and will be eager to relive that moment.