Alejandro Garnacho, Moises Caicedo, and Estevao Willian are set to return to Chelsea’s starting lineup for tonight’s clash against Barcelona at Stamford Bridge. Enzo Maresca has restored the trio after resting them for the Premier League win over Burnley, as the Blues prepare for a high-profile European meeting with the La Liga side.
Chelsea will line up with Robert Sanchez in goal behind a back four of Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, and Marc Cucurella. Reece James, Caicedo, and Enzo Fernandez form the midfield three, while Estevao, Garnacho, and Pedro Neto start in attack. The Portuguese forward is expected to operate as a false nine.
The decision has shown Maresca’s intent to field an aggressive, front-foot side against Barcelona, having rotated heavily in the league at the weekend. Notably, Andrey Santos started in midfield, and Neto scored in the victory over Burnley..
From the right, Estevao will look to continue his impressive early impact since joining Chelsea from Palmeiras, having already shown his quality domestically and in Europe. Garnacho, a summer signing from Manchester United, has quickly become an important option on the left flank after completing a ÂŁ40 million move earlier this season.
Behind them, Caicedo’s return at the base of midfield provides added security against a Barcelona side expected to dominate periods of possession. In contrast, James’ inclusion in midfield again shows Maresca’s willingness to invert his captain to help the Blues control the ball.
Chelsea boss Maresca speaks about facing Barcelona
Speaking ahead of the Barcelona fixture, Maresca discussed the scale of the occasion and the importance of managing expectations around his young attackers, particularly Estevao. The Italian coach has repeatedly stressed that Chelsea’s project is built on developing emerging talent without placing excessive pressure on them.
Maresca has also framed the meeting with Barcelona as an opportunity for his side to measure their progress against elite opposition. He has also insisted that performances and development remain as important as the result at this stage of the campaign.
With Barcelona bringing a squad that includes Lamine Yamal and other high-profile talents, the Chelsea boss has highlighted the need for composure and patience in and out of possession.
Maresca spoke to reporters ahead of the match about Estevao, before stressing Chelsea’s faith in the teenager’s long-term potential:
“Estevao is already playing at a high level and is starting games for Brazil.”
He added that “for sure he will be a top player for this club,” while urging the winger to focus on enjoying his football rather than trying to outshine Barcelona’s stars. Chelsea will embrace the occasion, but their young core, including Estevao and Garnacho, will be judged over the season rather than a single night under the lights at Stamford Bridge