Chelsea lineup vs Brighton unveiled by Enzo Maresca

• September 28, 2025
• C Badenhorst
• 0 Comments

Official Starting XI for the Brighton clash

Enzo Maresca's debut as Chelsea manager brings a mix of fresh faces and seasoned campaigners. The Chelsea lineup fields Robert Sánchez between the posts, backed by a back four of Malo Gusto, Mohamed Fofana, Carney Chukwuemeka (listed as Colwill in some reports), and Marc Cucurella. In midfield, Moisés Caicedo partners the versatile Paulo Fernández, offering both steel and creativity.

Further up the pitch, Carney Palmer occupies the number 10 role, linking play with wingers Nathaniel "Nate" Madueke and Jadon Sancho. At the tip of the spear, Joao Felix (referred to as "Jackson" in the original note) leads the line, tasked with converting chances created by the wide men.

• Goalkeeper: Robert Sánchez
• Defence: Malo Gusto, Mohamed Fofana, Carney Chukwuemeka, Marc Cucurella
• Midfield: Moisés Caicedo, Paulo Fernández
• Attacking midfield: Carney Palmer (No.10)
• Wingers: Nathaniel Madueke, Jadon Sancho
• Striker: Joao Felix

What Chelsea fans were hoping to see

The announcement sparked immediate chatter on social media and fan forums. Many supporters wanted to see veteran Timo Werner back in the starting eleven, arguing his experience could ease the pressure on the younger attackers. Others pushed for a more aggressive wing-back setup, suggesting that Reece James should be deployed higher up the pitch to provide extra width.

There were also calls for a midfield reshuffle, with fans advocating for a double pivot of N'Golo Kanté and Enzo Fernández to dominate the centre of the park. The debate highlighted a split between those eager for bold, untested lineups and traditionalists who prefer proven performers when the stakes are high.

Beyond individual names, the broader discussion centered on Maresca's tactical vision. Supporters are curious whether the manager will favor a high-pressing, possession‑based approach or lean on quick counter‑attacks, especially against a Brighton side known for its disciplined organization.

Regardless of the speculation, the final roster reflects Maresca's intent to blend youth with seasoned talent, aiming for a dynamic style that could surprise the hosts on Saturday.