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

Chelsea prepare for FA Cup test at Charlton

Chelsea step into the FA Cup spotlight on Saturday evening as Liam Rosenior takes charge of his first match, travelling to The Valley to face Charlton. A new chapter begins for the Blues, one shaped by opportunity, rotation and a need to restore authority after a frustrating midweek derby defeat to Fulham.

With fixtures piling up and a Carabao Cup semi final first leg against Arsenal looming, this cup tie against Charlton offers Rosenior a chance to assess his squad in competitive conditions. Chelsea know the FA Cup can be unforgiving, yet Championship opposition will be viewed as a platform to reset momentum and reinforce standards.

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Rosenior era begins in earnest

Rosenior’s appointment brings fresh energy to Cobham and his first selection reflects the balancing act ahead. Several senior figures are expected to be rested, while squad players are handed a clear audition. It is a moment to establish trust, discipline and clarity, hallmarks of Rosenior’s recent work in France.

Alongside him in the dugout will be a reshaped Chelsea coaching staff, blending familiar faces with colleagues from Strasbourg. Calum McFarlane remains an important presence, promoted to first team coach after steadying the ship as caretaker following Enzo Maresca’s departure.

Squad rotation and selection dilemmas

An experimental Chelsea lineup feels likely against Charlton. Filip Jorgensen could start in goal, offering valuable minutes, while Andrey Santos has a strong chance to feature after previously working under Rosenior. Estevao Willian is available again after missing Fulham, whereas Cole Palmer is expected to be used sparingly, if at all.

There are constraints. Marc Cucurella serves a suspension, Levi Colwill and Romeo Lavia continue their injury recovery, and Dario Essugo remains a doubt despite returning to training. Young forward Shim Mheuka’s involvement in first team sessions underlines the broader theme of opportunity.

Chelsea XI and match details

Predicted Chelsea XI vs Charlton (4-2-3-1): Jorgensen, Acheampong, Tosin, Badiashile, Hato, Santos, Caicedo, Estevao, Buonanotte, Gittens, Delap.

Kick off is at 8pm GMT on Saturday January 10, 2026. For Chelsea, this visit to Charlton is about more than progression. It is about setting a tone, embedding new ideas and beginning Rosenior’s reign with purpose.