Chelsea Starting XI vs Arsenal: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Chelsea predicted lineup shaped by absences and compassion

Chelsea arrive at the Emirates Stadium with their Carabao Cup hopes framed by uncertainty rather than momentum. The semi final second leg against Arsenal demands clarity, yet availability issues continue to cloud the picture for Chelsea.

Estevao situation remains unresolved

Estevao remains a doubt after travelling to Brazil on compassionate leave, missing Saturday’s 3-2 win over West Ham in the process. Head coach Liam Rosenior has been clear on the club’s stance, prioritising the player’s wellbeing over selection urgency. He confirmed there would be no attempt to rush the teenager back, with the focus firmly on readiness rather than necessity.

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That approach leaves Chelsea weighing alternatives in attacking areas, particularly with the second leg requiring both composure and conviction.

Selection balance and recent rotation

Rosenior is expected to field a strong lineup, having rotated selectively at the weekend. Marc Cucurella, Joao Pedro and captain Reece James all started on the bench against West Ham and are expected to return. The message from that rotation was clear, resources were being managed with this fixture in mind.

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At the back, Tosin Adarabioyo is unlikely to feature despite returning to light training on Friday, while Filip Jorgensen’s minor injury keeps his involvement uncertain.

Injury list influences attacking shape

Chelsea will also be without Jamie Gittens, who was forced off early against West Ham. Rosenior explained the situation candidly afterwards: “Jamie unfortunately felt his hamstring. I don’t know the extent of the injury. It’s a real shame for him because I wanted to give him a start and I wanted him to show what he could do. So for him to come off after 25 minutes is disappointing for him and hopefully it’s not too bad.”

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With depth stretched, Chelsea’s predicted lineup reflects both necessity and intent as they attempt to overturn the deficit.

Chelsea predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; James, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho; Joao Pedro.Injured: Gittens, Tosin, Essugo, Lavia, Colwill.Doubt: Estevao.

Kick off is at 8pm on Tuesday February 3, 2026, live on Sky Sports and ITV.