Chelsea travel to the south coast this afternoon for a Premier League encounter with Bournemouth, aiming to bounce back from a damaging midweek defeat. The mood at Stamford Bridge has shifted dramatically, with optimism from a creditable draw against Arsenal swiftly dampened by a poor performance against Leeds United.
Chelsea's Selection Headaches and Key Absences
The Blues will be without midfielder Moises Caicedo, who serves a suspension after his red card in the Arsenal match. His absence was keenly felt in the loss to Leeds and will extend to next week's fixture against Everton. Andrey Santos, who deputised on Wednesday, found the challenge considerable on a night where manager Enzo Maresca made five alterations to his side.
There is more positive news regarding the defensive and midfield options. Reece James, who impressed in midfield against the Gunners, was rested in midweek as part of his ongoing management following long-term injury issues. He is expected to return to the starting eleven today, with Wesley Fofana also likely to be recalled after being left out against Leeds.
Palmer's Push for Fitness and Attacking Decisions
All eyes are also on the fitness of Cole Palmer. The England international has been plagued by a persistent groin injury this season, with a subsequent stubbed toe further delaying his comeback. He made a substitute appearance against Leeds, and Maresca is reportedly eager to reintegrate him to full match sharpness as soon as possible.
Should Palmer start in his favoured number ten role, it presents Maresca with a tactical choice upfront. The decision for the central striker position appears to be between Liam Delap and Joao Pedro. In defence, Tosin Adarabioyo's error for Leeds's third goal could see him make way for the returning Fofana.
Confirmed Absences and Metro's Predicted Chelsea XI
Maresca has no new injury concerns to deal with, but the treatment room remains occupied. Romeo Lavia, Dario Essugo, and Levi Colwill are all still unavailable for selection. Further rotation is anticipated following the hectic schedule.
James is a certainty to return, though his position—whether at right-back or in midfield—remains a point of discussion. The predicted lineup suggests a stronger, more experienced side will take to the field at the Vitality Stadium as Chelsea seek to regain momentum.
The match kicks off at 3pm on Saturday, 6 December 2025. Due to the UK's traditional Saturday afternoon blackout, the game will not be televised live. Fans can follow comprehensive live coverage via dedicated sports blogs and match centres.
