Chelsea travels to Elland Road on Sunday to take on an age-old rival in Leeds United. While the two sides may not produce the heated on-field entertainment of years past, the hatred that the fanbases have for each other never fails to create a tense environment. Jesse Marsch’s comments about Thomas Tuchel being available to manage the game haven’t gone down well with the traveling supporters, which will undoubtedly add to the tension.
These feelings of disdain only make the matches more competitive. While the Blues were head and shoulders above the Whites when they were managed by Marcelo Bielsa, Marsch has leveled the playing field a bit. This should still be a match that the visitors win comfortably, but you never know when Chelsea and Leeds get together. It’ll be important for the Blues to bounce back and control their emotions following a heated draw with Spurs last weekend. However, they cannot be allowed to drop their performance levels, despite a couple of changes in the starting XI.
These are the performances that will ultimately decide Chelsea’s season. The Blues have always been able to show up against traditional big six opponents, but how they play against the bottom dwellers is far more important. Tuchel will need to keep his side humbled as it searches for its first convincing victory of the season away against Leeds.
Here is how The Pride of London team sees the contest playing out:
Bo Martin: 0-2 Chelsea
As I wrote in my article this week, I believe this is an opportunity for Chelsea to establish some consistency and rhythm. Leeds United is extremely vulnerable against the press. I think Conor Gallagher and Mason Mount will play fluidly between the front line and midfield—interchanging at times. High energy and high tempo secure the Blues a win that’s even more comfortable than the score suggests in an important early season contest.
Caden Charpentier: 1-2 Chelsea
Leeds United has shown a whole lot of quality early on, and with the Blues on the road, this is not going to be an easy three points. However, the first half against Tottenham last week showed how dominant this Chelsea side can be when it’s at its best.
Gabe Henderson: 1-4 Chelsea
The Blues have scored a combined three goals in their first two Premier League matches, so I know it seems a bit crazy to predict a four-goal blitz at Elland Road. However, I think Tuchel will have his men craving three points following the abysmal refereeing decisions last weekend. Leeds United is a different team under Marsch, but there is little it can do to prevent an angry Chelsea from leaving West Yorkshire with a victory.
Anthony Gatt: 1-3 Chelsea
Mike Malley: 1-3 Chelsea
This match-up has historically been a high-scoring affair that Chelsea has dominated over the past two decades. With the two squads currently at each club, I would expect more of the same on Sunday. A goal for Conor Gallagher on his potential first start would be exciting.
What is your score prediction for the match? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter!