Chelsea hit the road for their next Premier League fixture, taking on Everton at Goodison Park. The Blues, riding high on a five-game winning streak in the league, aim to make it six against a side currently sitting 16th in the table. Here’s what to watch for in this intriguing matchup:
1. Can Chelsea Break Their Goodison Park Curse?
Goodison Park hasn’t been kind to Chelsea in recent years. The Blues have managed just one win in their last seven visits, scoring only twice during that stretch. That lone victory came in 2022, courtesy of a Jorginho penalty.
This time, however, Enzo Maresca’s side arrives in formidable form. Chelsea are unbeaten in their last 11 matches across all competitions, winning each of the last eight. Under Maresca, the team has already reversed fortunes in many challenging fixtures this season. Despite this, Sean Dyche and his Everton squad are expected to pose a tough test. Since October, Everton have been among the best defensive sides in Europe, excelling in clean sheets and goals conceded.
2. Who Will Fill the Void at Left-Back?
Marc Cucurella, Chelsea’s go-to left-back this season, will miss Sunday’s match after receiving a red card at the end of the Brentford game.
Enzo Maresca has a few options to address Cucurella’s absence. Renato Veiga could slot in at left-back, having already featured there in UEFA Conference League matches. Alternatively, Malo Gusto could take the spot, though he has only started at left-back when Reece James has been available for the right-back role—a scenario that could see Josh Acheampong step in. Another possibility is moving Moisés Caicedo to right-back, as Maresca did against Aston Villa earlier this season. Fans will be eager to see how the manager handles this challenge or if he has a surprise up his sleeve.
3. The Right-Wing Dilemma
Another position that might see a change is the right wing. Pedro Neto was first-choice for the role against Tottenham, but his subsequent suspension kept him out of the Brentford game. Neto, who played 45 minutes against Astana between those matches, remained an unused substitute in Chelsea’s last outing against Shamrock Rovers.
Noni Madueke, on the other hand, started against Brentford and Shamrock Rovers, playing 45 minutes in the latter match. With both players rested and ready, Maresca faces a tough decision. Neto’s initial selection before his suspension suggests he might have the edge, but Madueke’s recent form, including assists in his last two appearances, makes him a strong contender. Chelsea fans will hope Maresca picks the right option to trouble Everton’s defense.
4, Eyeing Top Four Security
Regardless of the result, Chelsea will head into Christmas among the top two in the Premier League table. A victory against Everton could even see them temporarily climb to the top spot, depending on Liverpool’s result against Tottenham.
While Liverpool still holds a game in hand, Chelsea’s primary focus this season remains to secure a top-four finish, as reiterated by Maresca and his players. With several teams competing for similar ambitions, earning three points at Goodison Park will only strengthen Chelsea’s position and boost their confidence in the race.