Champions League nights carry their own rhythm and purpose, and Chelsea know this trip to Baku demands full concentration. Enzo Maresca finds himself balancing progress in Europe with Premier League priorities, yet Qarabag stand level on points with Chelsea after three matches, and the Azerbaijani side have already shown they can unsettle bigger names. Both teams have won twice and lost once, leaving tonight’s contest finely balanced and potentially decisive.
Qarabag threat puts rotation in doubt
Chelsea’s blueprint under Maresca has featured youthful expression and tactical poise, however this is no evening for experiments. Maresca may think twice about resting key players in today’s Champions League group match against Qarabag. The Chelsea manager respects the challenge posed by opponents who will play with intensity and pride in front of their home supporters at the Tofiq Bahramov Stadium in Baku. As he admitted, he knows Qarabag have the potential to frustrate his side when the two teams meet.
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Chelsea have an eye on Saturday, when Wolves come to Stamford Bridge following their managerial change, yet Europe always comes first when qualification is on a knife edge.
Squad dilemmas and fitness concerns
Cole Palmer remains unavailable and Pedro Neto’s absence from training, after coming off with what appeared to be cramp against Tottenham, has raised concern. Neto is expected back to face his former club Wolves, but for tonight Maresca must adjust again. Liam Delap returns from suspension and offers direct running and youthful fearlessness. As the report noted, he served his domestic suspension following his second yellow card on return from injury in the 4-3 Carabao Cup win at Wolves.
No academy hopefuls have travelled, with Maresca opting for senior reliability for the five and a half hour flight to Azerbaijan. Reggie Walsh and Shim Mheuka remain at home as Chelsea named a strong squad full of first team regulars.
Long term absentees Levi Colwill, Benoit Badiashile and Dario Essugo continue their rehabilitation.
Predicted Chelsea shape and key selections
There is a goalkeeping decision, with Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen both trusted options. Malo Gusto and Reece James compete again at right back, and either can step into midfield if needed, with depth across central areas providing Maresca flexibility.
Andrey Santos reinforced his confidence on Tuesday, indicating that he will start the game.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Jorgensen, Gusto, Tosin, Acheampong, Cucurella, Lavia, Santos, Estevao, Buonanotte, Gittens, Delap
Injured: Neto, Palmer, Colwill, Badiashile, Essugo
Kick off: 5:45pm BST, Wednesday 5 November 2025
Venue: Tofiq Bahramov Stadium, Baku