Chelsea vs Everton: Predicted Lineups and Tactical Preview for April 26, 2025

As the Premier League season approaches its climax, Chelsea host Everton at Stamford Bridge in a crucial fixture for both sides. Chelsea aim to bolster their chances of securing a top-five finish and Champions League qualification, while Everton look to maintain their mid-table stability under David Moyes.

🔵 Chelsea: Predicted Lineup & Team News

Head coach Enzo Maresca faces selection decisions ahead of this match, especially with the upcoming Conference League semi-final against Djurgarden. Injuries to key players like Malo Gusto and Wesley Fofana necessitate adjustments in defense. Moises Caicedo is expected to fill in at right-back, while Roméo Lavia returns to bolster the midfield. Christopher Nkunku is back in the matchday squad after being omitted in the previous game for technical reasons.

Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1):

• GK: Robert Sánchez

• Defenders: Moises Caicedo, Trevoh Chalobah, Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella

• Midfielders: Roméo Lavia, Enzo Fernández

• Attacking Midfielders: Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto

• Forward: Nicolas Jackson

Unavailable Players:

• Malo Gusto (injury)

• Wesley Fofana (season-ending injury)

• Mykhailo Mudryk (unavailable)

• Marc Guiu (not ready to return)

⚪ Everton: Predicted Lineup & Team News

David Moyes' Everton have shown resilience since his return, climbing to 13th in the table. Injuries in defense have prompted Moyes to consider repositioning Jake O'Brien from right-back to his natural center-back role. The team continues to rely on the attacking prowess of Iliman Ndiaye and the physical presence of Beto up front.

Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1):

• GK: Jordan Pickford

• Defenders: Nathan Patterson, Jake O'Brien, Jarrad Branthwaite, Vitaliy Mykolenko

• Midfielders: James Garner, Idrissa Gana Gueye

• Attacking Midfielders: Jack Harrison, Abdoulaye Doucouré, Iliman Ndiaye

• Forward: Beto

Unavailable Players:

• James Tarkowski (injury)

• Other injuries not specified

⚔️ Tactical Preview

Chelsea's Approach:

Chelsea are expected to dominate possession, utilizing their midfield duo of Lavia and Fernández to control the tempo. The attacking trio of Madueke, Palmer, and Neto will aim to exploit spaces between Everton's lines, with Jackson leading the line. Defensively, the absence of Gusto and Fofana means a reshuffled backline, which could be tested by Everton's counter-attacks.

Everton's Approach:

Everton will likely adopt a compact defensive structure, aiming to absorb pressure and hit Chelsea on the break. The physicality of Beto and the creativity of Ndiaye will be crucial in transitioning from defense to attack. Set-pieces could also be a significant avenue for Everton, given Chelsea's defensive adjustments.

🔮 Match Prediction

Given Chelsea's need for points to secure European football and their historical dominance over Everton at Stamford Bridge, they are favored to win. However, Everton's recent form and tactical discipline under Moyes suggest they won't be easy opponents.​

📺 Match Details

• Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025

• Kick-off Time: 12:30 PM BST

• Venue: Stamford Bridge, London

• Broadcast: TNT Sports (UK), fuboTV and NBC Sports (USA)