Southampton vs Chelsea: 5 Blues who Enzo Maresca should start

The December fixture marathon is upon us, and Chelsea’s next challenge is a clash against a struggling Southampton side that sits at the foot of the Premier League table. With just one win and five points from their campaign thus far, the Saints present a prime opportunity for Chelsea to manage their squad effectively while maintaining momentum. Though no Premier League game is a foregone conclusion, this midweek fixture allows Enzo Maresca to rotate his team, offering valuable minutes to key players while resting others ahead of a crucial London derby against Tottenham Hotspur. Here are five players Maresca should consider starting against Southampton.

Christopher Nkunku

Chelsea’s leading scorer this season with 11 goals across all competitions, Christopher Nkunku, has largely been confined to UEFA Conference League appearances, as Nicolas Jackson’s outstanding form has cemented his place in the starting XI. However, the visit of the league’s bottom-placed team offers Nkunku the perfect stage to stake his claim for more Premier League action. A start against Southampton would not only allow Jackson a well-earned rest but also give the Frenchman a platform to showcase his talents in domestic competition.

Tosin Adarabioyo

The Blues suffered a setback with Wesley Fofana’s hamstring injury during Sunday’s 3-0 win over Aston Villa, ruling him out for up to five weeks. With Fofana and Levi Colwill steadily building a formidable partnership at the back, Maresca must now find an able deputy to partner Colwill in the interim. Tosin Adarabioyo, who impressed alongside Colwill in Chelsea’s win over West Ham earlier in the season, should be the natural choice. While Benoît Badiashile remains an option, his unconvincing display against FC Heidenheim raises doubts about his readiness for league action. A consistent Adarabioyo-Colwill pairing could provide the defensive stability Chelsea needs in Fofana’s absence.

João Félix

João Félix has showcased flashes of brilliance during his outings in the UEFA Conference League, and his performance against Leicester City earned plaudits from Maresca. Deploying Félix in a more advanced role on Wednesday could allow Chelsea to rest Moisés Caicedo, with Enzo Fernández and Romeo Lavia anchoring the midfield. The Portuguese forward’s flair and creativity can unlock Southampton’s defense, and a strong showing would reinforce his growing influence at Stamford Bridge.

Renato Veiga

Marc Cucurella has been outstanding at left-back this season, but with Tottenham looming on Sunday, rotation will be vital. Renato Veiga has quietly emerged as a reliable option in both midfield and defense. Having played left-back in recent Conference League matches and impressed, the 21-year-old could seamlessly step in for Cucurella. A start against Southampton would not only keep Cucurella fresh but also provide Veiga with more valuable Premier League experience after his initial start against Bournemouth earlier this season.

Malo Gusto

After returning from injury with a late cameo against Aston Villa, Malo Gusto could be in line for his first start in weeks. His inclusion would restore balance to the right flank, allowing Chelsea to avoid relying on makeshift solutions like Moisés Caicedo or Axel Disasi at right-back. While Disasi struggled against Heidenheim, Gusto’s natural ability in the position makes him the ideal candidate to take over. A start against Southampton would help the Frenchman regain his sharpness and offer Chelsea defensive solidity on the right side.

Conclusion

With a busy schedule ahead, careful squad management will be crucial for Chelsea to navigate the winter period successfully. A mix of rotation and maintaining competitive momentum is key, and the match against Southampton offers Enzo Maresca a valuable opportunity to achieve both. These selections could provide the necessary balance as the Blues aim to strengthen their league position while keeping players fresh for the challenges ahead.