Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has named a strong side to face West Ham and help the side to their first victory of the EPL campaign. The Blues are keen to get their first win and goals on the board and named a team that should be capable of securing all three points at the final whistle.
Robert Sanchez starts in goal for the World Champions, protected by Marc Cucurella, Tosin Adarabioyo, Trevor Chalobah, and Malo Gusto, who form the Blues back four, while Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez make up a double pivot in front of the defense.
Pedro Neto and Cole Palmer handle the offensive capabilities behind Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, who lead the lines for Chelsea in their second London Derby in as many games this season. Here is how fans reacted to having Delap and Pedro on the pitch at the same time:
“Finally, Maresca has decided to do the right thing by starting Joao Pedro on the left-wing and Delap as the striker. We should win this easily.” a fan said.
“Joao Pedro AND Delap. I hope this works. Would have loved James in the mix somehow though.” another added.
“João and Delap together upfront… Plus Palmer. Interesting. All the best to the boys.” a third said.
Other fans questioned Maresca’s decision to leave Estevao on the bench. The Blues have won their last three games against their East London rivals, last failing to beat the Hammers in 2023.
West Ham line up to face Chelsea
Former Chelsea boss Graham Potter has named the side to host his former employers at the London Stadium. The Hammers will be keen to avoid another defeat after their opening day loss to newly promoted Sunderland has seen East London side linked into the relegation speculations so early in the campaign.
West Ham start with Mads Hermansen in goal with a back three of Jean-Claire Todibo, Max Kilman, and Nayef Aguerd offering him protection.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Malick Diouf provide the width for the team at fullback, while Lucas Paqueta plays ahead of Tomas Soucek and James Ward-Prowse in midfield. The Hammers will hope Niclas Fullkrug and Jarrod Bowen combine well at the speartip of their team in what is expected to be a tough game for them.
With just one change from the team that lost their opening fixture in the opening weekend, Potter will hope the tactical changes are enough to help his side perform much better in their latest fixture.