Chelsea Starting XI vs West Ham United: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Chelsea Look for First Victory Against West Ham United as Maresca Faces Key Selection Choices

As Chelsea prepare for a London derby against West Ham United at the London Stadium, the conversation naturally centres around team selection, defensive reshuffles and the growing influence of Cole Palmer. With kick-off set for 8pm BST tonight, Enzo Maresca finds himself weighing up his options amid a string of injuries and returning players.

Centre-back Decisions Loom for Maresca

One of the more pressing dilemmas for Maresca lies in central defence. With Benoît Badiashile and Levi Colwill sidelined, and Romeo Lavia still unavailable, the spotlight is on those returning to fitness and form. The 19-year-old Josh Acheampong made a positive impression in the recent win over Crystal Palace, prompting genuine consideration for another start.

However, Wesley Fofana has returned to fitness and could see minutes for the first time this season. Tosin Adarabioyo, who resumed full training on Wednesday, is also back in contention. Maresca acknowledged the situation in his pre-match press conference, stating:

“Romeo [Lavia] is still out,” Maresca said. “Benoit [Badiashile] is still out. Wes is back. Tosin is available for tomorrow. Last week he was not available.”

Photo IMAGO

That leaves the manager with a choice to make alongside Trevoh Chalobah, whose place in the starting eleven looks secure for now.

Forward Options and New Signings to Watch

In attack, Chelsea have decisions to make with their latest acquisitions. Joao Pedro and Liam Delap are both vying for a place up front, and either could be deployed as the central figure in Maresca’s favoured 4-2-3-1 system. While Delap offers a more direct option, Pedro’s versatility could see him link more effectively with the three attacking midfielders.

Cole Palmer is expected to retain his position in the number ten role. His creativity, intelligence on the ball and ability to knit together play has been instrumental in Chelsea’s early form this season. If Palmer finds space, especially between West Ham’s lines, it could spell trouble for the hosts.

Young Talent and Tactical Identity

Maresca’s Chelsea are still very much a work in progress, but there are clear signs of a distinct tactical identity beginning to take shape. The combination of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo in midfield provides a solid foundation, while the inclusion of young players like Acheampong, Gittens and Palmer reflects the manager’s willingness to trust in youth.

This evening’s fixture will offer another test of how well the squad is adapting to Maresca’s ideas. Against a West Ham United side that can be robust and difficult to break down, Chelsea will need to show precision in possession and discipline off the ball.

Predicted Chelsea XI vs West Ham United

Formation: 4-2-3-1Line-up: Sanchez; James, Tosin, Chalobah, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Neto, Palmer, Gittens; Joao PedroInjured: Badiashile, Lavia, ColwillVenue: London StadiumKick-off: 8pm BST, Friday, 22 August 2025Broadcast: Sky Sports

Chelsea will be looking to maintain their momentum in the Premier League, with Cole Palmer once again central to their attacking rhythm. Against a resilient West Ham United side, Maresca’s choices could well define the outcome.