The build-up to this weekend’s Premier League action culminates in a highly anticipated London derby on Sunday, as Chelsea host Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea, under manager Enzo Maresca, are currently ahead of Arsenal in the league on goal difference, sitting just outside the top four. Their attacking prowess was on full display midweek with an emphatic 8-0 victory over Armenian side FC Noah in the Conference League, marking their third straight win in the competition.
However, Chelsea’s impressive European form contrasts with their more inconsistent Premier League performances. They are in fourth place with 18 points from 10 matches and have an unbeaten home record stretching across eight games, though they’ve yet to keep a clean sheet in the league at Stamford Bridge this season. Arsenal, on the other hand, has struggled in attack recently, suffering back-to-back 1-0 defeats in both the Premier League and Champions League, failing to break down opposition defenses in those matches.
Arsenal’s loss to Inter Milan in midweek underscored their recent difficulties. Despite attempting 46 crosses, they were unable to score, marking their first European defeat of the season. The Gunners are also dealing with off-field distractions, notably the sudden resignation of sporting director Edu, which has added pressure on manager Mikel Arteta as his side sits fifth in the Premier League, seven points adrift of leaders Liverpool.
While Arsenal has not lost three consecutive away Premier League games since the 1994-95 season, they remain a strong force in London derbies, having won their last six, including a dominant 5-0 victory over Chelsea last season. Arteta will hope to get his side back on track, especially with key players like Martin Ødegaard returning to fitness after injury.
Chelsea will be without Cole Palmer for this match due to an injury sustained in last weekend’s game against Manchester United. The winger, who has been involved in 12 goals this season, will be missed, but Chelsea can call on other in-form players like Christopher Nkunku and Joao Félix. Arsenal, meanwhile, will be monitoring the fitness of Declan Rice, who is doubtful due to a foot injury, while Kai Havertz faces a late fitness test after a clash with Inter’s Yann Bisseck.
**Predicted lineups:**
**Chelsea** (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, James; Caicedo, Lavia; Madueke, Nkunku (or Palmer), Neto; Jackson
**Arsenal** (4-3-3): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Ødegaard, Jorginho, Partey; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli
This exciting London derby promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams eager to bounce back from recent struggles and make a statement. Chelsea’s strong home record and Arsenal’s dominance in capital clashes set the stage for an intriguing battle at Stamford Bridge.
