Chelsea turns its attention to European action as they prepare to host Armenian side Noah at Stamford Bridge on Thursday night in the UEFA Conference League. The Blues, winless in their last two outings in all competitions, are eager to regain momentum ahead of a crucial London derby against Arsenal this weekend. Here’s what to watch for.
1. Full-Back Selections
On Sunday, Malo Gusto was limited to 45 minutes, which may prompt Enzo Maresca to start him as a natural right-back in upcoming midweek fixtures. With Reece James fit again, Gusto should be the starting right-back in European matches, allowing Chelsea to field a specialist in that role.
Similarly, Renato Veiga may feature as the left-back. Chelsea should stop experimenting with players out of position, especially in the full-back roles.
2. Right-Wing Choices: Time to Stick with Natural Wingers
While Jadon Sancho remains unavailable, Chelsea should field either Pedro Neto or Noni Madueke on the right wing. Experimenting with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in that position should be avoided. With almost the full squad available, Chelsea should play a natural winger there — even Tyrique George would be a better fit than Dewsbury-Hall.
3. Possible Center-Back Pairing Adjustments
If Gusto starts at right-back, Maresca can choose his center-back pairing from Tosin Adarabioyo, Axel Disasi, and Benoît Badiashile. This decision is crucial, as the preferred duo could become Chelsea’s third and fourth choices, behind Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill. For an assertive lineup, Maresca might even consider starting Colwill to emphasize the importance of results after last week’s Carabao Cup loss to Newcastle. However, such a move from Maresca seems unlikely.
4. Key Players Looking to Make Their Mark
Several players have seen limited Premier League minutes but have contributed in the Conference League, such as Filip Jörgensen, Christopher Nkunku, João Félix, Mykhailo Mudryk, Renato Veiga, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Others, like Carney Chukwuemeka, Cesare Casadei, and Marc Guiu, have barely featured. Not everyone will get minutes on Thursday, but those who do need to make a strong impact. A standout performance could open doors for more Premier League action. Maresca should be willing to give Chukwuemeka, Guiu, and Casadei some time, even if it’s off the bench.
5. Chelsea's Approach: Urgency Needed
Since the last international break, Chelsea has won just two of five matches, with two losses and a draw. Following Thursday’s game, they face Arsenal in the Premier League in a highly anticipated London derby. The upcoming fixture against Noah provides a chance to build confidence and momentum.
The Blues’ recent performances have been underwhelming, including a Carabao Cup exit to Newcastle and a 1-1 league draw with 13th-place Manchester United. The team’s approach and motivation have noticeably dipped, and Maresca’s tactics have come under scrutiny. Chelsea can’t afford to carry the same mindset into the Arsenal clash, as they haven’t beaten their London rivals in three years. Against Noah, Chelsea should aim to dominate from the first whistle.
A strong showing on Thursday could lift the team’s morale and reassure fans. With another international break on the horizon, it’s crucial that Maresca fosters a positive, competitive attitude, avoiding the complacency that has marred recent matches.