Chelsea enter a new era as they host reigning champions Manchester City at Stamford Bridge this afternoon, navigating their first match since the departure of head coach Enzo Maresca.
Chelsea's Interim Leadership and Selection Headaches
The Blues begin life after Maresca, who left the club on New Year's Day. With Liam Rosenior, currently in charge at Strasbourg, the favourite for the permanent role, Under-21 coach Calum McFarlane will take temporary charge of the senior side for this daunting fixture against Pep Guardiola's City.
McFarlane's team selection is complicated by a suspension for key midfielder Moises Caicedo. The Ecuador international serves a one-match ban after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season against Bournemouth. Andrey Santos is a candidate to replace him, though Reece James could again be deployed in a midfield role.
There is better news regarding left-back Marc Cucurella, who missed the Bournemouth draw but returned to training on Friday and could be available. All eyes will also be on Cole Palmer facing his former club; the attacker has not completed a full 90 minutes since returning from injury in September, but today could mark his full return.
Manchester City's Boost with Rodri's Return
For the visitors, the major team news is the expected return of Rodri to the starting lineup. The influential Spanish midfielder made his comeback from injury as a substitute in the midweek draw with Sunderland and is now in contention to start his first match since October, providing a huge boost to City's title ambitions.
His return is timely given fresh injury concerns. Nico Gonzalez and Savinho both picked up knocks in that Sunderland match, adding to an absentee list that already includes John Stones and Mateo Kovacic. Furthermore, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Omar Marmoush are away at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Predicted Lineups for the Premier League Showdown
Manchester City predicted XI: Rodri's anticipated return to the starting eleven is seen as crucial for City's control in midfield, a key factor in their ongoing title race with Arsenal.
Chelsea predicted XI: Following a fine performance against Bournemouth, Estevao Willian is expected to justify another start this afternoon as Chelsea look to spring a surprise under interim management.
The Premier League clash kicks off at 5:30pm on Sunday 4 January 2026. The match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, with streaming available via the Sky Go app and NOW TV for subscribers.
