Estevao Eyes Another Breakout Performance as Chelsea Gear Up for Burnley Clash
Chelsea make their return to Premier League duty this Saturday afternoon as they travel to face Burnley at Turf Moor.
The Blues suffered defeat in their last encounter against one of the promoted teams, falling to a late Sunderland goal in October, and will be determined to bounce back and prevent another upset in Lancashire. With seven victories from their past nine fixtures across all competitions, they are well-positioned to avoid another setback.
Following the Burnley fixture, Chelsea face Barcelona and Arsenal, which may encourage Enzo Maresca to consider squad rotation on Saturday. Nevertheless, with the desire to maintain their pursuit of Arsenal and Manchester City, the Italian coach could opt for his strongest available lineup—despite several players being sidelined through injury.
This is how Chelsea might set up against the Clarets.
Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs. Burnley (4-2-3-1)
GK: Robert Sánchez—While questions remain about the Spanish goalkeeper's capabilities, he has recorded five clean sheets across 11 straight Premier League starts. However, he has conceded in all four previous encounters with Burnley.
RB: Malo Gusto—Gusto made his eighth senior appearance for France during the recent international window and contributed two assists in their 4–1 victory over Azerbaijan. After scoring in his most recent Chelsea outing, he'll be looking to continue his excellent offensive contributions.
CB: Wesley Fofana—Fofana was not called up for France duty alongside teammate Gusto and should be fully refreshed for the journey to Burnley. Having started the previous two league matches, he seems to have won back Maresca's confidence.
CB: Trevoh Chalobah—Chalobah remained on the bench for England during their wins against Serbia and Albania but is expected to feature prominently against Burnley upon his Chelsea comeback. The defender is a certain starter in the defensive line.
LB: Marc Cucurella—Few left-backs worldwide can match Cucurella's quality and consistency. The Spanish defender has impressed with his forward runs this campaign, with only Enzo Fernández and Pedro Neto creating more opportunities in the league.
DM: Moisés Caicedo—Caicedo stands as the premier defensive midfielder globally, continuing to provide comprehensive protection while contributing offensively from deep positions. He will be crucial during this demanding fixture schedule.
DM: Enzo Fernández—Fernández's recovery from injury allows Reece James to be preserved for the forthcoming matches against Barcelona and Arsenal. The Argentine midfielder has delivered consistent performances for Chelsea throughout the season.
AM: João Pedro—Pedro saw limited action under Carlo Ancelotti during the international period, making minimal impact in Brazil's friendly matches. This leaves him well-rested for the Burnley clash, though he has yet to secure a Premier League victory against them.
RW: Estêvão—The 18-year-old received Ballon d'Or predictions during the international break after netting in both of Brazil's friendlies. With Pedro Neto potentially rested for the midweek fixture, Estêvão may earn another starting opportunity.
ST: Liam Delap—Delap will be hoping his difficult beginning in west London gains momentum on Saturday. The tall striker has been hampered by fitness problems and behavioral concerns at Chelsea.
LW: Alejandro Garnacho—The summer signing has shown promise in recent Chelsea appearances, delivering two assists in the victory over Wolves before the international break. He now boasts four goal involvements across his last four outings.
