Bournemouth vs Chelsea: Predicted lineups, team news, key players and prediction

Chelsea head to the Vitality Stadium to face an unbeaten Bournemouth side in a crucial Premier League matchup. The Blues are eager to shake off their recent struggles, while the Cherries aim to continue their impressive start to the season.

Recent form

Chelsea's season has been a mixed bag. They enjoyed back-to-back victories against Servette and Wolverhampton Wanderers, but a disappointing loss to Servette in the Europa Conference League qualifier second leg and a 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace have left them sitting in 11th place. The team is keen to regain its footing and climb up the table.

Bournemouth, on the other hand, are riding high after a dramatic comeback against Everton. Despite trailing 2-0 with just three minutes to go, the Cherries pulled off an incredible 3-2 victory, maintaining their unbeaten status and moving up to 8th in the standings. Their resilience and determination have been a highlight of their season so far.

Team news and predicted lineups

Chelsea fans might witness the debut of new signing Jadon Sancho, who has joined on loan from Manchester United. Cole Palmer, having recovered from a thigh injury, is also available for selection. However, the Blues will miss the services of Reece James, Malo Gusto, Omari Kellyman, and Filip Jorgensen due to injuries.

Chelsea predicted lineup: Sanchez, Disasi, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella, Fernandez, Caicedo, Madueke, Palmer, Felix, Jackson

Bournemouth will be without goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who cannot play against his parent club. Mark Travers is expected to step in as the goalkeeper. Enes Unal and Tyler Adams remain sidelined, and Philip Billing's participation is uncertain due to a back issue.

Bournemouth predicted lineup: Travers, Araujo, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez, Scott, Cook, Semenyo, Kluivert, Sinisterra, Evanilson

Key players to watch

Chelsea's Cole Palmer has been a standout performer, creating more big chances (4) than any other player in the Premier League this season. His impressive output of a goal or assist every 76 minutes is second only to Erling Haaland's exceptional record.

For Bournemouth, the attacking duo of Antoine Semenyo and Marcus Tavernier have been relentless. Semenyo leads the league in shots attempted (17), and together with Tavernier, they have been involved in 21 goal attempts, just behind Kevin De Bruyne's 23.

Head-to-head

Chelsea have historically dominated this fixture, winning 14 of the 21 previous meetings. However, Bournemouth have managed to pull off surprises, notably winning twice at Stamford Bridge in consecutive Januarys (2018 and 2019). The Blues have won three of the last four Premier League encounters, but their last visit to the Vitality Stadium ended in a draw.

Score prediction

Despite Bournemouth's strong start, Chelsea's away form and attacking capabilities might prove decisive. The Blues have won their last three Premier League away games and will be eager to extend this streak.

Prediction: Bournemouth 1-4 Chelsea