Chelsea and Arsenal Set for Epic London Derby Showdown: Team News and Bold Predictions

The Premier League's leading duo clash at Stamford Bridge this Sunday afternoon, with Chelsea looking to narrow the deficit to league leaders Arsenal down to just three points.

These London adversaries approach what appears to be the most crucial meeting between these sides in recent memory following impressive midweek triumphs against European giants. Chelsea delivered their finest display under Enzo Maresca's management thus far with a commanding 3–0 victory over Barcelona, while Arsenal were equally impressive in their 3–1 success against the previously undefeated Bayern Munich.

Numerous observers will contend that Mikel Arteta's squad currently represents Europe's finest team, though the Spanish manager understands that championships aren't secured in November. Nevertheless, victory here would see the Gunners establish a commanding seven-point advantage at the Premier League's peak.

The Blues, meanwhile, leapfrogged Manchester City in the standings following the Citizens' 2–1 defeat to Newcastle United last Saturday. Prior to that setback, they had comfortably secured a 2–0 triumph at Burnley.

However, they're now seeking an elusive victory against their north London opponents. Their most recent success in this matchup came in August 2021, when Romelu Lukaku was finding the net for Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea side.

Here's Sports Illustrated's preview of Sunday's pivotal Premier League encounter.

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Chelsea Team News

Chelsea's exceptional display against Barcelona will make it challenging for Maresca to alter his starting eleven, though the opposition is vital in determining the Italian's selection, and he'll likely rotate several positions on Sunday.

João Pedro is expected to return to the lineup, having remained on the bench throughout Tuesday's match, but Maresca must decide whether to deploy the Brazilian as a number 10 or as a deeper-lying striker. It might be beneficial to have a physical presence like Liam Delap leading the line against Arsenal's defense.

Estêvão certainly deserves a starting role on the right flank, though Maresca also has Cole Palmer at his disposal. The English midfielder participated in training before the Barcelona match and should be prepared to start if required this weekend.

Levi Colwill, Roméo Lavia and Dário Essugo continue to be unavailable for the home side.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs. Arsenal

Chelsea predicted lineup vs. Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Sánchez; Gusto, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; James, Caicedo; Estêvão, Fernández, Neto; Pedro.

Arsenal Team News

Arsenal have steadily welcomed back their offensive talents from injury following the November international break, with Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli among those to return to fitness. Both found the scoresheet against Bayern.

Nevertheless, Leandro Trossard was substituted due to an injury concern on Wednesday evening and remains questionable for Sunday's fixture. Arteta is also expected to be without Viktor Gyökeres for this encounter, while Kai Havertz should return sometime next month. Gabriel Jesus is nearing his anticipated comeback from a knee problem.

Piero Hincapié and Riccardo Calafiori are set to return to the left side of Arsenal's solid defensive unit, while skipper Martin Ødegaard could rejoin the midfield with Eberechi Eze moving to a wider position.

Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Chelsea

Arsenal predicted lineup vs. Chelsea (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Hincapié, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice, Ødegaard; Saka, Merino, Eze.

Chelsea vs. Arsenal Score Prediction

A victory for Arsenal at Stamford Bridge would prove meaningful for the Gunners, who have been absolutely dominant in their two matches following the international break. They appear unstoppable at present, but Maresca's Chelsea will challenge their quality.

The Blues were ruthless during the week, with their defensive work crucial in neutralizing a Barcelona side that appeared lost without Pedri in the middle of the park. Arsenal will possess more answers to the hosts' pressing game, and are likely to examine a defense that has appeared vulnerable more frequently than solid this campaign.

Yet, there could be psychological factors at work here. Setting aside tactics momentarily. Stamford Bridge, following Tuesday's success, will be electric, and there might be a feeling of urgency among the hosts, who'll recognize that Arsenal could pull away with this title if they triumph on Sunday.

Therefore, we'll predict a repeat of last season's outcome: 1–1. Perhaps Palmer's return will help Chelsea equalize late in the match.

Prediction: Chelsea 1–1 Arsenal