Chelsea Stars Return: Predicted XI Ready to Battle Tottenham in Fierce London Derby

Chelsea bounced back to form during the midweek following their disappointing 2–1 home loss to Sunderland, though their 4–3 triumph at Molineux has done little to boost morale ahead of Saturday's capital clash.

Nevertheless, the Blues rarely require peak performance when confronting Tottenham Hotspur, having secured victory in nine of their last 11 encounters. It's a rivalry they've controlled in recent years.

Enzo Maresca managed to give several key players a breather on Wednesday evening ahead of their journey to N17, and the Italian coach understands the impact a loss in this match would have on his reputation with Chelsea fans.

The away side remains without their star player Cole Palmer, who delivered an outstanding performance in this matchup last season, so here's how Chelsea might set up without him on Saturday night.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs. Tottenham (4-2-3-1)

GK: Robert Sánchez—Despite failing to keep a clean sheet in his last two appearances, Sánchez has maintained solid form this campaign, which was much needed.

RB: Reece James—The England defender has excelled this season, with Maresca adjusting his tactical role match by match. Given Spurs' vulnerability to crosses during the week, James's crossing ability could prove crucial.

CB: Wesley Fofana—Chelsea's defensive frailties might prompt Maresca to select Fofana, their most gifted center-back who has struggled with fitness issues.

CB: Trevoh Chalobah—While Chalobah performed better than Tosin Adarabioyo during Sunderland's decisive sequence last weekend, his display wasn't exemplary. He's still expected to feature on the left side of Chelsea's backline.

LB: Marc Cucurella—The Spanish defender's matchup with Mohammed Kudus may determine Spurs' attacking success from regular play on Saturday night.

CM: Moisés Caicedo—The Ecuador midfielder joins several teammates returning to the starting eleven after receiving midweek rest. Caicedo did make a substitute appearance at Molineux.

CM: Andrey Santos—Santos shouldn't be deployed in advanced positions to accommodate Malo Gusto's inverted role from right-back. The Brazilian impressed in a deeper midfield role on Wednesday and may have earned his spot.

RW: Estêváo—While Chelsea possess several adequate wingers, Estêváo stands out as exceptional. He could illuminate Saturday's derby, with his duel against Djed Spence promising to be captivating.

AM: Enzo Fernández—The Argentine has been influential in this fixture since arriving at the club, finding the net in both matches last season.

LW: Pedro Neto—Despite Alejandro Garnacho's goal against Sunderland and Jamie Gittens' spectacular midweek strike, Maresca will likely opt for Neto on the left flank.

ST: João Pedro—The striker's goal output has declined after an impressive season start. Chelsea's historical success in this fixture suggests a fruitful outing for the Brazilian forward.