West Ham vs. Chelsea: Predicted Lineups and Latest Team News Ahead of the Clash

Chelsea aims to continue their momentum from a close victory against Bournemouth as they prepare to clash with West Ham in a London derby this weekend.

Coming off Christopher Nkunku’s decisive late goal, Chelsea now has seven points from four matches. The recent game also broke a Premier League record for the highest number of yellow cards, officiated by Anthony Taylor.

Similarly, West Ham salvaged a draw against Fulham thanks to a late goal from Danny Ings after a poor first-half showing. Under new management from Julen Lopetegui, the team is still seeking consistency and optimal lineup.

The Hammers have had a strong record against Chelsea, remaining unbeaten in their last three home encounters and winning the last match 3-1, providing a solid chance for players to impress their new coach.

Lineups, Expected Starters, and Team Updates for West Ham vs. Chelsea

Emerson Palmieri and Niclas Fullkrug are both set to have their fitness assessed ahead of the weekend’s match as Lopetegui finalizes his starting lineup.

Lucas Paqueta is anticipated to return, possibly taking the No. 10 role in place of a struggling Tomas Soucek. Michail Antonio should start, while Vladimir Coufal is likely to be chosen over Emerson if the latter isn’t fully fit.

West Ham’s expected lineup (4-2-3-1, left to right): Areola (GK) — Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Kilman, Coufal — Alvarez, Rodriguez — Bowen, Paqueta, Kudus — Antonio

Injury concerns: Emerson (doubt), Fullkrug (doubt)
Suspensions: None

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Chelsea still misses captain Reece James, but there’s positive news as Enzo Fernandez, Romeo Lavia, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Malo Gusto have returned to full training.

This recovery gives Chelsea coach Maresca numerous options while aiming for a fifth consecutive league win away from home. Fernandez, who stepped in as captain in James’ absence, is expected to return to midfield, while Gusto is likely to play at right-back due to a lack of alternatives. Lavia and Dewsbury-Hall may remain on the bench due to limited playtime this season.

Christopher Nkunku and Jadon Sancho could also be key players, given their contributions to the winning goal against Bournemouth in the last match.

Chelsea’s predicted lineup (4-2-3-1, left to right): Sanchez (GK) — Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella — Caicedo, Fernandez — Madueke, Palmer, Sancho — Nkunku

Injuries: James
Suspensions: None