After missing out on European football last season, Chelsea will officially kick off their UEFA Conference League campaign against Belgian side Gent at Stamford Bridge. This marks the club’s first-ever appearance in the competition which was established in 2021. As favorites to win the tournament, the West London side could become the first team to win all three major UEFA competitions if they manage to go all the way.
Here are four key things to watch out for:
1. Backline Selection
The defensive lineup will be one of the biggest talking points. Filip Jörgensen is expected to return in goal, especially after Robert Sánchez's poor performance against Brighton last weekend, where his mistakes led to both goals Chelsea conceded. A strong showing from the Swedish-born goalkeeper could even open the door for him to challenge for a starting spot in Premier League matches.
In defense, Reece James remains unavailable, and neither Wesley Fofana nor Ben Chilwell is included in the Conference League group-stage squad. Malo Gusto, who only regained full fitness last Tuesday, is unlikely to start three matches in a row. This could give Axel Disasi a chance to start as the right-back. However, his last outing in that position—away to Bournemouth—was not convincing. Tosin Adarabioyo, who has impressed in recent appearances, should also be in line for a start.
Marc Cucurella was a key player for Spain in their Euro triumph and has started every Premier League match till now. However, Thursday could offer Enzo Maresca a chance to rest the Spaniard, with Renato Veiga available as a replacement.
2. Midfield Duo
Enzo Maresca's midfield selection will be another area of interest. Last Tuesday, the manager opted for the pairing of Cesare Casadei and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. With Romeo Lavia not part of the group stage squad, it remains to be seen whether Maresca will stick with the same duo or rotate by keeping one of Enzo Fernández or Moisés Caicedo in the starting lineup after they featured in the 4-2 weekend victory over Brighton.
3. Attacking Quartet
Given the strength of the front four that started against Barrow a week ago, Christopher Nkunku, João Félix, Pedro Neto, and Mykhailo Mudryk are expected to be in starting 11 on Thursday. All attackers from the previous weekend were rested last Tuesday. But with a stronger opponent this midweek, it's unlikely to happen again, as more of the weekend starters could feature in the matchday squad apart from Cole Palmer.
4. Players to Watch
Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia, and Cole Palmer are all excluded from the group stage squad, with the club managing their minutes carefully due to past injury issues. Palmer, who scored four goals in the victory over Brighton, has featured in every Premier League match so far, but Maresca is keen to avoid over-reliance on the young Englishman.
With several key players expected to either start on the bench or be rested entirely, Thursday’s match provides opportunities for others to shine. The League Cup clash with Barrow saw Christopher Nkunku find the back of the net once again, while João Félix, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Pedro Neto were also among the goals. They’ll be looking to continue their form in this crucial European fixture.