Chelsea will host Wolverhampton Wanderers at Stamford Bridge on Monday night. The Blues, winless in their last six Premier League matches, are desperate for a victory to keep their top-four aspirations alive against a Wolves side languishing in 17th place. Here’s what to watch for ahead of this critical fixture:
1. Opportunity to Return to the Top Four
Chelsea started the game week in fifth place but have since dropped to sixth. Nevertheless, Newcastle United’s home defeat to Bournemouth has presented an opportunity for the Blues to reclaim a spot in the top four with a win. Defending champions Manchester City currently hold fourth position after their Sunday win over Ipswich, edging Newcastle on goal difference. However, a draw on Monday would leave Chelsea level on points with Man City and Newcastle.
Interestingly, Chelsea will visit Manchester City in just a week, making this match even more crucial for momentum in the race for Champions League qualification.
2. The Wolverhampton Wanderers Challenge
Chelsea’s last meeting with Wolves was a resounding 6-2 away victory in the season’s second game. At the time, Wolves were managed by Gary O’Neil, but they are now under Portuguese coach Vítor Pereira. While Pereira’s tenure started promisingly with two wins, his side has since slumped, losing their last two league matches 3-0.
Chelsea’s form is no better. The Blues have managed just three points from their last five league games, raising questions about their ability to capitalize on Wolves’ struggles. Defensive lapses and inefficiency in front of goal have plagued Chelsea, allowing opponents to create chances on the counter. Wolves could exploit this if Chelsea’s issues persist.
3. Potential Lineup Changes
Enzo Maresca’s team selection has come under scrutiny. Despite glaring deficiencies, the manager trusts players like goalkeeper Robert Sánchez and forward Nicolas Jackson, whose poor form has hurt the team. In midfield, over-reliance on a core group of players has led to fatigue and injuries.
Maresca revealed in his pre-match press conference that five players, including Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill, and Enzo Fernández, are injury doubts for Monday’s game. Romeo Lavia, who recently returned from injury, is also in doubt, highlighting Chelsea’s thin squad depth, with Moises Caicedo being the only other fit central midfielder Maresca seems to trust. While players like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Renato Veiga, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Cesare Casadei are available to play in midfield, Maresca has yet to give them many opportunities in the Premier League.
Trevoh Chalobah who was recalled from his Crystal Palace loan is expected to return to the starting lineup, given the lack of reliable alternatives. While Chelsea have no shortage of creativity, Jackson’s struggles up front and the defensive vulnerabilities behind Sánchez have left the Blues unable to find consistency.
4. Need for a Tactical Reset
Maresca’s early tenure was marked by thorough preparation and in-game adjustments, but that has been missing since the Everton match. Substitutions have become either late or nonexistent, and the players often appear directionless. Even when things seem to click, errors from Sánchez at the back or Jackson up front undo the progress.
A change in approach is imperative, and it starts with Maresca. He must rediscover the tactical sharpness that once defined Chelsea’s performances this season.
5. Referees and Home Support
Chelsea’s winless streak has also been marred by controversial refereeing decisions, with four of their last five matches featuring significant calls that went against them. Unfortunately, Chelsea as a club has not publicly addressed these issues, leaving the home crowd to make their presence felt.
However, Stamford Bridge has been criticized for its lackluster atmosphere. Away fans are often louder than home supporters, and there is little effort to pressure referees or opposing players. A more vocal and engaged home crowd could provide the lift Chelsea desperately need, especially in such a high-stakes game.