Chelsea vs Barrow : 3 things to look out for

Chelsea will kick off their Carabao Cup journey on Tuesday at Stamford Bridge, facing League Two leaders Barrow. The Blues, runners-up last season, will be eager to take the next step and secure a trophy at Wembley after enduring the disappointment of six consecutive final losses there. The home side will be full of confidence after their impressive victory over West Ham United last saturday.

Here are three key things to watch for:

1. Wholesale Changes in the Squad

Head coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is set to start the match. French right-back Malo Gusto, who missed the last two games through injury, is also expected to return to the squad. Maresca has also mentioned that players like Carney Chukwuemeka, Ben Chilwell, Tyrique George, and Josh Acheampong will be involved. Except for George, who made his senior debut in the second leg of the Conference League play-off against Servette, this would be the first matchday appearance of the season for the others, if selected.

Up front, Mykhailo Mudryk, Pedro Neto, João Félix, and Christopher Nkunku are expected to start, replacing the quartet that began the match at the London Stadium. So far this season, Maresca has shown a preference for a settled starting XI, only making changes when forced by injury or fitness concerns. Tuesday's match offers a chance for players who have mostly come off the bench to make a case for a regular starting spot.

2. Stamford Bridge Atmosphere

One of the recurring topics of discussion among Chelsea fans is the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge. Compared to many other grounds in England and across Europe, Stamford Bridge has often been criticized for its lack of energy. Games are frequently played in near silence, with away fans dominating the noise, except against a few select opponents. While some blame tourist ticket buyers for this, it’s clear that tourists aren’t the only ones attending these matches.

The debate about expanding the stadium continues, but right now, the team needs vocal support from their home crowd. Chelsea’s traveling fans are among the loudest in the sport yet there were boos during the home opener against Manchester City, despite it being Maresca’s first match in charge. Stamford Bridge needs to step up—this team deserves better from its home fans.

3. Sticking to the Principles

There’s still a long way to go before we see Enzo Maresca’s tactical style fully take shape, but the signs are there. Tuesday’s game offers an opportunity to assess how the rest of the squad has adapted to his football philosophy in a competitive match. While facing a League Two side like Barrow should make things a little easier, complacency could be costly. Barrow, currently topping their division, will arrive full of confidence and looking to cause a major upset.

Tuesday’s match marks the beginning of a stretch of four consecutive home games for Chelsea. This run must start on the right foot with a strong performance, setting the tone for what's to come.