Premier League 2025-2026: Chelsea-Tottenham, the likely lineups
The Stamford Bridge stage is preparing to host, at 9:15 p.m., a London derby with a thousand faces and very high tension. The challenge between Chelsea and Tottenham, valid for the 37th day of the Premier League, puts very heavy points at stake for the destinies of both clubs. The Blues, reeling from the disappointment in the FA Cup final against City, have just ushered in a new era by officially announcing the signing of Xabi Alonso; the team, awaiting a new coach, must win in order not to see the train to Europe vanish for good. On the other hand, Spurs led by Roberto De Zerbi arrive at the appointment with a great chance to arithmetically secure salvation; complicit in West Ham’s misstep, a success in the derby would guarantee the guests permanence in the Premier League with a day to spare, turning this cross-city match into a real in or out.
The Blues, led momentarily by McFarlane while waiting for Xabi Alonso’s installation, take the field to win. In front of Sanchez, the three-man line consists of Fofana, Colwill and young Hato. In midfield, solidity is provided by the central Caicedo-Fernandez pair, while Gusto and Cucurella will act on the outside lanes. In the three-quarter, Cole Palmer’s flair and Neto’s speed will have the task of inventing and supporting the only forward Joao Pedro.
Roberto De Zerbi responds with a more covered team. Between the posts there is Kinsky, protected by a defensive line with Porro and Udogie as full-backs, and the central pair formed by Danso and Van de Ven. A thick midfield made up of Bentancur and Palhinha, while on the three-quarter, Gallagher, flanked by Kolo Muani and the talented Tel, will be in support of Brazilian center forward Richarlison.
Probable formations
Chelsea (3-4-2-1): Sanchez; Fofana, Colwill, Hato; Gusto, Caicedo, Fernandez, Cucurella; Palmer, Neto; J. Pedro. All. McFarlane.
Tottenham (4-2-3-1): Kinsky; Porro, Danso, Van de Ven, Udogie; Bentancur, Palhinha; Kolo Muani, Gallagher, Tel; Richarlison. All. De Zerbi.
