Enzo Maresca has finally named the side demanded by Chelsea fans, after weeks of backlash for his rotations and tactical decisions. A robust, balanced team has now been named for the match against London rivals Fulham, pleasing fans.
In goal, Robert Sanchez makes a return. In defense, Reece James will start at right-back, something fans have been actively begging for. Trevoh Chalobah, Levi Colwill, and Marc Cucurella all complete the back four.
The midfield pairing of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo will combine technical and defensive qualities, building an anchor for the attacking tetrad up front. Cole Palmer will occupy the creative central role, flanked by Noni Madueke and Pedro Neto. Leading the line is Nicolas Jackson, with form that has been inconsistent, but he will look to benefit from better service.
The line-up signals a shift from Maresca. He has finally succumbed to the escalating pressure to name stronger lineups in the league run-in as Chelsea hunt for a Champions League spot. Here is a reaction from the delighted fans:
James RB where he belongs finally
— Kamal (@LumpOfCFC) April 20, 2025
Best lineup in a while, But will you win??
— 𝐌𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐊 (@TheMahleek) April 20, 2025
Good team, no regrets. Hopefully means no excuses.
— CFCDaily (@CFCDaily) April 20, 2025
He's actually starting almost the best 11(could argue about the CBs) available and James is actually playing as a RB. Maresca must have been on twitter and seeing all the hate.
— ed🏴 (@EdBull1905) April 20, 2025
— ً (@drohfc) April 20, 2025
Chelsea Chase Crucial Win at Fulham to Keep Champions League Hopes Alive
Chelsea shall be eager to plug the holes in their wayward streak of away games. They will also hope to keep their dreams for the Champions League alive against Fulham at the Craven Cottage on Sunday. The Blues have not won an away Premier League game since very early in December, nine games ago, with five losses and three draws.
Enzo Maresca and his lads sneaked through the midweek European game, defeated 2-1 by Legia Warsaw in the Conference League. However, the 3-0 win at home during the first leg sent the team into the semi-finals. However, Chelsea have been less dependable in the league with just one victory in four, scoring three goals along that path.
Currently occupying sixth position in the table, the Blues are sitting just a point below fifth-placed Manchester City. With hopes still alive for Champions League qualification, every game from now onwards has become critical. Yet, they have to show some improvement when they face Fulham. In the last outing in December, Chelsea lost 2-1 at Stamford Bridge.
