Chelsea vs Leicester: Team News, Predicted Lineups & Key Insights
Chelsea will host Leicester City at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, March 9, 2025, in a Premier League clash that holds crucial implications for both teams. Chelsea is pushing for a top-four finish, while Leicester battles to avoid relegation. With key players returning from injury and tactical adjustments expected, this encounter promises to be an exciting one.
Chelsea Team News
Manager Enzo Maresca has received positive updates on squad fitness ahead of the game. Wesley Fofana, sidelined since December, is set to return and may start against his former club. Benoit Badiashile and Malo Gusto have recovered from minor injuries and are available for selection.
However, the Blues will be without Noni Madueke, Nicolas Jackson, and Marc Guiu, who remain unavailable due to injuries. Romeo Lavia has resumed training but is unlikely to start as he regains match fitness.
Last time out against Leicester. 😍 pic.twitter.com/Z5Q48C1ST9
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) March 8, 2025
Leicester City Team News
Leicester City, under the guidance of Ruud van Nistelrooy, is dealing with several injury setbacks. Ricardo Pereira (hamstring) and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (knee) will miss the trip to Stamford Bridge. However, Woyo Coulibaly has recovered in time, providing a defensive boost for the Foxes.
Despite these challenges, Leicester will aim to put up a resilient performance as they seek crucial points in their battle against relegation.
Your 🐐 at the Bridge.#CHELEI pic.twitter.com/wJaDh3SNdO
— Leicester City (@LCFC) March 6, 2025
Chelsea vs Leicester: Predicted Lineups
Chelsea (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Filip Jorgensen
Defenders: Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella
Midfielders: Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández
Attacking Midfielders: Jadon Sancho, Cole Palmer, Christopher Nkunku
Forward: Nicolas Jackson (if fit), otherwise Armando Broja
Leicester City (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Mads Hermansen
Defenders: James Justin, Wout Faes, Jannik Vestergaard, Victor Kristiansen
Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Boubakary Soumare
Attacking Midfielders: Facundo Buonanotte, Bilal El Khannouss, Stephy Mavididi
Forward: Jamie Vardy
With both teams sticking to similar formations, midfield battles will play a key role in determining the flow of the game.
Bold Predictions for Chelsea vs Leicester
Cole Palmer to End Goal Drought
Chelsea’s rising star Cole Palmer has endured a rough patch in front of goal, failing to score in his last eight games. However, facing a Leicester defense that has conceded 12 goals in their last four league matches, Palmer has an excellent chance to find the back of the net.
Chelsea to Keep a Clean Sheet
With Wesley Fofana back in defense and Leicester struggling in attack (having failed to score in their last four Premier League matches), Chelsea has a great opportunity to keep a clean sheet. The return of key defenders strengthens the case for a shutout at Stamford Bridge.
High-Scoring Game Favoring Chelsea
Leicester’s defensive vulnerabilities are evident, with 61 goals conceded in 27 matches. Chelsea, with their attacking quality, could exploit this weakness, making a high-scoring affair likely. A 3-0 win for Chelsea seems a realistic prediction based on form and statistics.
FAQs
When is the Chelsea vs Leicester City match?
The match takes place on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Stamford Bridge in London.
What time does the game kick off?
Kick-off is scheduled for 2:00 PM GMT.
Will the match be televised?
The match will not be broadcast on UK television due to scheduling constraints, but live updates and commentary will be available on talkSPORT.
Which key players are unavailable for the match?
Chelsea will miss Noni Madueke, Nicolas Jackson, and Marc Guiu, while Leicester will be without Ricardo Pereira and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku.
Can Chelsea secure a top-four finish?
With strong performances and favorable fixtures ahead, Chelsea remains in contention for a Champions League spot, but they must consistently pick up points in matches like this.
Will Jamie Vardy start for Leicester?
Yes, Vardy is expected to lead the attack, but his impact will depend on the supply he receives from midfield.
With both teams eager for crucial points, Chelsea vs Leicester promises to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for the Premier League standings.