Chelsea fans have expressed their appreciation for Enzo Maresca’s decision to start Josh Acheampong in the upcoming match against Crystal Palace. The game, set for Saturday, December 4, at Selhurst Park, will see Robert Sanchez in goal, with Malo Gusto, Acheampong, Levi Colwill, and Marc Cucurella in defense.
In midfield, Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, and Jadon Sancho will feature, while Nicolas Jackson is expected to lead the attack.
Acheampong, an 18-year-old central defender, made his Chelsea debut last season and earned his first full start under Maresca in the UEFA Conference League against Astana on December 12. Having recently signed a contract extension that keeps him at the club until 2029, Acheampong has made three appearances this season.
His inclusion in the starting lineup has been welcomed by supporters, especially given the recent challenges faced by defenders Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Axel Disasi.
One fan praised Maresca for the decision, saying, “Acheampong over Tosin and Disasi might just be the best decision ever,” while another acknowledged Maresca’s boldness in giving the young player a chance.
Other fans also expressed their excitement for Acheampong’s start, with comments like “Josh gets his start, LETS GO!” and “Finally the manager showing bravery. I’d rather lose to an Acheampong mistake than a Disasi one.”
While fans are optimistic about Acheampong’s inclusion, the upcoming match against Crystal Palace is expected to be a tough challenge. Former Liverpool player Mark Lawrenson predicted a 1-1 draw, noting Chelsea’s recent struggles after a promising start to the season.
At present, Chelsea sits in fourth place in the Premier League, 10 points behind league leaders Liverpool, while Crystal Palace is 15th with 20 points. Lawrenson warned that “things unravel quickly at Chelsea” if the team fails to regain its form.
