Following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brentford in the Premier League, Chelsea returns to European action on Thursday night as they face Shamrock Rovers in the UEFA Conference League group stage.
With qualification to the knockout rounds already secured, the Blues aim to defend their perfect record and finish the group stages in style at Stamford Bridge.
Shamrock Rovers, one of the only other unbeaten teams in the competition this season, promises to present a formidable challenge.
However, Chelsea’s dominance in Europe so far gives them the upper hand as they look to extend their winning streak.
Maresca’s Rotational Policy Continues
Enzo Maresca has made it a habit to rotate his squad for Conference League fixtures, ensuring a blend of youth and fringe players alongside more seasoned campaigners.
This approach has allowed Chelsea to maintain their Premier League focus while excelling in Europe. With the Blues now increasingly involved in the domestic title race, the Italian tactician will once again shuffle his lineup.
Despite the changes, Maresca’s side is expected to deliver another strong performance, bolstered by their depth and quality across the squad.
Predicted Chelsea XI
Filip Jorgensen has firmly established himself as Chelsea’s cup goalkeeper this season and will once again take his place between the posts. After an impressive debut, Josh Acheampong is expected to continue at right-back, showcasing his potential in a high-stakes European fixture.
Axel Disasi, who has struggled for game time recently, is set to feature in his natural center-back role, partnering Renato Veiga, who will play out of position. Veiga’s versatility has been invaluable, especially with Chelsea managing absences in defense due to injuries and suspensions.
At left-back, Marc Cucurella is expected to start after receiving a red card that rules him out of the game against Everton over the weekend.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, yet to secure a Premier League start since his summer move, will aim to impress as he continues to feature prominently in Europe. Partnering him in midfield is the exciting Samuel Rak-Sakyi, who turned heads with his performance in the previous match against Astana.
Carney Chukwuemeka, whose place in the squad remains under scrutiny, will take up the attacking midfield role, hoping to deliver a performance that strengthens his case for more regular minutes.
Christopher Nkunku, Chelsea’s top scorer in the competition, will likely operate from the right wing. His consistent performances in Europe have increased the pressure on Maresca to consider him for a starting role in domestic competitions.
On the opposite flank, Tyrique George continues his European adventure, bringing creativity and energy to the attack. His place in that spot is very much secure following the news that Mudryk failed a doping test.
Leading the line will be Marc Guiu, who has already netted three goals in the competition and will be eager to add more to his tally.
Predicted XI: Jorgensen; Acheampong, Disasi, Veiga, Cucurella; Dewsbury-Hall, Rak-Sakyi; Chukwuemeka, Nkunku, George; Guiu
