A blockbuster London derby concludes Matchweek 13 as a confident Chelsea team hosts title favorites Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Sunday evening.
Both teams come in after impressive Champions League victories earlier this week. Chelsea surprised Europe with a strong 3-0 win over Barcelona, while Arsenal made their mark as well, defeating Bayern Munich 3-1 in North London.
Chelsea aiming to extend their resurgence
Under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea have found their groove again. A shaky start raised doubts about the Italian coach, but his team has responded well, winning nine of their last eleven matches across all competitions, including three consecutive Premier League victories without allowing a goal.
However, Stamford Bridge has not always been a tough place for opponents this season. Less than 44 percent of Chelsea’s league points have been earned at home, and the Blues have not yet achieved back-to-back home wins in the Premier League. Converting their European success into consistent domestic performance will be a significant challenge.
Arsenal arrive with Champions League confidence
If Chelsea’s impressive win set the stage, Arsenal responded with an even stronger statement. Their victory over Bayern kept their perfect Champions League record intact, making them the only team with five wins from five in the group stage.
After worries about a tough schedule following the break, Mikel Arteta’s side has met every challenge with success. The 4-1 defeat of Tottenham in last week’s North London derby showed that the league leaders are playing at a high level ahead of this important trip to West London.
Chelsea predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
Sanchez; James, Adarabioyo, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernández; Estevao, Pedro, Neto; Delap.
Arsenal predicted XI (4-3-3)
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Hincapié, Calafiori; Eze, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Merino, Martinelli.
