Chelsea Set to Unleash Rising Stars Gittens and Hato in Premier League Bow Against Crystal Palace
Chelsea fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the 2025–26 Premier League campaign, with the world champions set to take the pitch this Sunday afternoon.
The confidence gained from their Club World Cup triumph carried over into impressive wins against Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan during their brief preseason schedule. There's growing belief that this developing Blues squad could mount a serious challenge this year after their December slump in 2024–25.
Nevertheless, their season opener presents potential pitfalls. While Chelsea should be favored against Crystal Palace at home in west London, the Eagles have a history of troubling top-tier opponents.
Enzo Maresca has already had the opportunity to work with several of Chelsea's exciting summer acquisitions, and here's the potential starting eleven he might deploy when Palace visits this weekend.
Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs. Crystal Palace (4-2-3-1)
GK: Robert Sánchez—Chelsea appears set to stick with their current goalkeeper options this summer, meaning Sánchez begins 2025–26 as the club's first-choice keeper once more.
RB: Reece James—Maresca will be hoping his skipper can maintain fitness throughout the season after enduring multiple injury setbacks in recent years.
CB: Trevoh Chalobah—The defender was questionable for Chelsea's season opener due to injury concerns, but the manager has confirmed Chalobah's availability and likely inclusion in the starting lineup.
CB: Jorrel Hato—The latest signing made substitute appearances in both Blues friendlies but could earn his first start on Sunday. With Levi Colwill sidelined long-term, the adaptable Hato faces significant responsibility.
LB: Marc Cucurella—While Hato provides cover at left-back, Colwill's absence means Maresca will utilize him centrally in defense. Cucurella's position remains secure, and he might even finalize a contract extension before Sunday's kickoff.
CM: Moisés Caicedo—A cornerstone of this Chelsea squad, Caicedo delivered outstanding performances last season and excelled at the Club World Cup. His consistent availability throughout league matches will be crucial for their title aspirations.
CM: Enzo Fernández—The Argentine midfielder will advance from his deeper role and frequently collaborate with Cole Palmer in advanced positions. Fernández developed into an effective late runner last season, and his responsibilities should remain similar.
RW: Pedro Neto—Following an emotionally challenging summer after Diogo Jota's heartbreaking loss, Neto has at least found success on the field. He begins the new campaign as Chelsea's first-choice right winger.
AM: Cole Palmer—Despite a statistically disappointing 2024–25 season, Palmer showcased his brilliance during the Club World Cup's final stages in July. Many anticipate the English talent will return to form spectacularly.
LW: Jamie Gittens—The ex-Borussia Dortmund prospect impressed during Chelsea's exhibition matches and appears to have secured his place in the opening Premier League starting eleven.
ST: João Pedro—Pedro's Chelsea journey couldn't have begun more promisingly. Following his significant contributions to their American tour success, the Brazilian found the net in both friendly encounters.
