Chelsea vs Bournemouth: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

Chelsea will aim to get back to winning ways in the Premier League as they host high-flying Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night.

Match Details

• Location: Stamford Bridge, London, England
• Date and Time: Tuesday, 14 January, 19:30 GMT
• Referee: Rob Jones
• VAR: Graham Scott

Recent Form and Head-to-Head

Chelsea’s recent Premier League performances have seen them drop points, with no wins in their last four league games. However, a dominant 5-0 victory over Morecambe in the FA Cup provided a much-needed confidence boost.

Bournemouth, despite battling injuries, are in fine form, with their last defeat coming back in November. They enter this clash seventh in the table and have the opportunity to leapfrog Chelsea with a win.

In their last five meetings, Chelsea has been the dominant side with four wins and one draw, including a 1-0 victory in the reverse fixture in September.

Chelsea: Team News and Predicted Lineup

Enzo Maresca’s squad sees the return of Reece James and Romeo Lavia, both of whom featured in the FA Cup. Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Mykhaylo Mudryk, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall remain sidelined. Noni Madueke, absent from the weekend due to illness, could return.

Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson

Bournemouth: Team News and Predicted Lineup

Injuries have hit Bournemouth hard, with Enes Unal tearing his ACL and Evanilson sidelined with a long-term foot injury. Winger Antoine Semenyo is expected to lead the attack. Kepa Arrizabalaga, on loan from Chelsea, is ineligible, meaning Mark Travers will start in goal. Several other key players, including Alex Scott, Julian Araujo, Marcos Senesi, and Luis Sinisterra, are also unavailable.

Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Travers; Aarons, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez; Christie, Cook; Brooks, Kluivert, Ouattara; Semenyo

Prediction

Despite Bournemouth’s strong run, their injury concerns could hinder them against a Chelsea side looking to bounce back in the league. The Blues’ refreshed squad and home advantage make them favorites in this encounter.

Predicted Score: Chelsea 2-0 Bournemouth