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

Chelsea predicted lineup for Benfica Champions League clash

Chelsea step into another significant Champions League evening with questions surrounding fitness, form and how Enzo Maresca chooses to configure his side. Stamford Bridge will host Benfica under the floodlights, a tie layered with intrigue given the injuries and doubts that frame Chelsea’s preparation.

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Fitness concerns and Maresca’s assessment

Maresca admitted the build-up has been dominated by uncertainty. “We need to maintain the level, for sure, because the Champions League requires a high level,” he said on Monday. “As you said in this moment we have, unfortunately, many players out with injury. This afternoon we are going to assess Caicedo, Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos. They are all players, unfortunately for us, with some small problems. So, we will see tomorrow if they are going to be available. For sure, in this moment, we have injuries, but I think we have enough in the squad to replace the injuries that we have.”

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The return of Pedro and Caicedo to training is a relief, giving Chelsea a lift in attack and midfield. Yet doubts remain about whether either is fully ready for the intensity of a Champions League fixture against a Mourinho-coached side.

Options in defence and midfield

Reece James may be spared a start, with Malo Gusto pushing to come into the back four. Benoit Badiashile is another candidate to strengthen central defence, while Marc Cucurella is expected to retain his spot on the left. Romeo Lavia could be handed a first start of the season if Caicedo is not cleared to play.

Attacking reshuffle

If Pedro is not risked, Chelsea are light on forward options. Liam Delap’s absence removes one of the few alternatives, meaning Marc Guiu, recalled from loan at Sunderland, could be thrust into the spotlight. Alejandro Garnacho offers width and drive, while Facundo Buonanotte, available again after missing the Brighton match, is an option in the No10 role. With Palmer injured, his creativity must be replaced collectively.

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Predicted Chelsea XI

Chelsea predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Sanchez, Gusto, Chalobah, Badiashile, Cucurella, Fernandez, Caicedo, Neto, Buonanotte, Garnacho, Pedro.

Injured: Palmer, Colwill, Tosin, Fofana, Delap, Essugo.Doubts: Caicedo, Pedro, Santos.

Kick-off is at 8pm BST, Tuesday, 30 September 2025 at Stamford Bridge. Coverage is live on TNT Sports.