LATEST NEWS: Joao Felix to start, Cole Palmer out, and issues at right-back – Major Chelsea changes for the Bournemouth clash.
Enzo Maresca may be forced to make a couple of changes as Chelsea head back into Premier League action against Bournemouth on Saturday.
With the first international break of the season now over, players have returned to their clubs, and Chelsea are gearing up for their clash at the Vitality Stadium on the south coast. Amid all the off-field discussions over the past week, Maresca will be eager for his players to shine on the pitch and create positive headlines.
However, the aftermath of the international break always brings uncertainties, particularly regarding player fitness. Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, who traveled back from South America, are slightly behind on their training schedules compared to their teammates. While the midfield pair is expected to be available for the trip, Maresca may not want to risk them unnecessarily.
Concerns also linger over Reece James and Romeo Lavia, who haven’t been seen in training with the squad this week, raising doubts about their availability. Last month, Maresca indicated that both players should be fit to return after the international break, but the recent images released by the club suggest they might not be ready for the Bournemouth game.
This situation is particularly troubling given that Malo Gusto is also expected to miss the match due to a thigh injury sustained against Crystal Palace earlier this month. With James not fully fit, Chelsea finds themselves short on options at right-back. Wesley Fofana, who has filled in at right-back before, could be called upon, as could Axel Disasi, although the latter has yet to feature in the Premier League this season.
These defensive concerns represent one likely change to the side that drew with Palace, while another adjustment could come in attack. Despite Cole Palmer’s recent return to training, his fitness levels may not be optimal, potentially paving the way for Joao Felix to make his first start of the season. Felix, who has made two substitute appearances since rejoining the Blues, could be given the opportunity to prove himself at the Vitality Stadium.
Maresca may view this match as the perfect chance to see how Felix fits into his tactical setup, especially as one of the advanced midfielders. Meanwhile, new signing Jadon Sancho could be in line for a bench role, having worked closely with Maresca during the international break. Up front, Nicolas Jackson is set to lead the line again, aiming to continue his scoring streak after netting against Crystal Palace and Wolves in his last two league appearances.
Overall, while Bournemouth pose a potential threat, Chelsea’s squad depth should provide Maresca with enough quality to manage these challenges and secure a positive result.