Rotation and Risk as Chelsea Balance European and Domestic Demands
There is always a tension to European nights in late spring, a sense of promise weighed against pragmatism. For Chelsea, travelling to face Djurgarden in the Europa Conference League semi-final, the dynamic is familiar: expectation, but with caveats.
Enzo Maresca’s side are clear favourites, not just for the tie but for the tournament. Yet, as has become typical of Chelsea’s modern existence, the situation is anything but simple.
With newly-crowned champions Liverpool visiting Stamford Bridge on Sunday in what could be a defining clash for European qualification via the Premier League, Maresca’s priorities are delicately poised.
He surprised many by naming a near full-strength XI against Legia Warsaw in the previous round, despite a 3-0 aggregate lead. Whether he repeats that move in Sweden is unclear, particularly after a double injury blow.
Fresh Injuries and Absences Create Selection Puzzle
Chelsea will be without goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and forward Christopher Nkunku, both of whom remained in London to recover from minor knocks. Romeo Lavia, who started the weekend’s 1-0 win over Everton, is ineligible after being omitted from the European squad earlier in the campaign.
Wesley Fofana and Marc Guiu remain sidelined, while Mykhailo Mudryk is also unavailable. Malo Gusto and youth product Kiano Dyer join the list of recent concerns. As a result, Chelsea have turned to academy depth, with Ted Curd, Reggie Walsh and Shim Mheuka making the travelling squad.
Predicted Lineup: Youth and Experience Blended
Maresca is expected to strike a balance between regulars and youth. Tyrique George may start again after impressing, while Nicolas Jackson, buoyed by ending his goal drought, could lead the line.
Predicted Chelsea XI vs Djurgarden:
Jorgensen; Acheampong, Tosin, Badiashile, Cucurella; Dewsbury-Hall, James; Sancho, Palmer, George; Jackson
Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm BST on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 3Arena, Stockholm. TNT Sports will broadcast the match live.
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