Enzo Maresca looks ready to shuffle his Chelsea squad heavily against Brighton. This comes with fresh doubts over key players and a brutal schedule ahead.
Maresca to make big changes in Chelsea squad for Brighton clash
Chelsea’s calendar has been relentless, with seven matches squeezed into just over three weeks. Brighton’s visit to Stamford Bridge kicks off another three-game stretch in eight days. Games with Benfica and Liverpool are also on the horizon.
For Enzo Maresca, this means rotation isn’t a luxury, it’s survival. Several players are carrying knocks, and the need to spread minutes is now very likely. Cole Palmer’s injury at Old Trafford remains the biggest headache. He tried to push through a groin issue but limped off early.
Chelsea won’t want to gamble again on their main playmaker. That leaves Maresca searching for answers in the final third. Joao Pedro and Tyrique George both potential solutions despite fitness concerns of their own. Facundo Buonanotte would have been a natural fit, but the loanee is unavailable against his parent club.
Selection issues across the pitch
The head coach’s shuffle isn’t just about the attack. In midfield, Enzo Fernandez looks set to continue. Meanwhile, Moises Caicedo is expected to face his former side despite not being fully sharp after the international break.
Out wide, the left flank is still a puzzle. Jamie Gittens hasn’t hit his form and Alejandro Garnacho isn’t yet fully ready. On the other hand, Pedro Neto may have to carry the load with Estevao Willian on the opposite wing.
At the back, Reece James could return after a rest. There’s a high chance that Marc Cucurella should feature against his old club. In addition, Robert Sanchez is back in goal after suspension. Trevoh Chalobah looks nailed on to keep his place. But, Wesley Fofana could be rotated for Tosin Adarabioyo to keep legs fresh. All signs point to a major reshuffle, with as many as eight changes on the cards.
Author’s Opinion:
Maresca’s rotation is more necessity than choice. The only way Chelsea can stay competitive is by managing minutes smartly. The real test is whether the reshuffled XI can deliver without losing rhythm.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
