Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Everton – Premier League Showdown at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea vs Everton – Maresca’s Men Set for Crucial Premier League Test

The mood in west London shifted from despair to cautious optimism last weekend as Chelsea mounted a dramatic second-half comeback to snatch a late win over Fulham. It was a moment that breathed life back into Enzo Maresca’s topsy-turvy debut campaign in charge. And now, with just five Premier League fixtures remaining, the stakes are sky-high.

Chelsea currently sit two points adrift of fifth place—a finish that would, under UEFA’s new coefficient rules, likely be enough to secure Champions League football next season. Every remaining fixture carries weight, but the visit of Sean Dyche’s dogged Everton side this Saturday is especially pivotal.

Maresca is expected to roll out a familiar 4-2-3-1 formation as his Blues look to continue their late-season surge. Here’s a detailed look at the predicted starting XI for Chelsea’s must-win clash against Everton.

Chelsea Predicted XI vs Everton (4-2-3-1)

Teenager Tyrique George is in contention to start / Ryan Pierse/GettyImages

Goalkeeper

GK: Robert Sanchez
Sanchez may have had a turbulent start to life in blue, but recent performances suggest the Spanish shot-stopper is finding his feet. While clean sheets remain elusive, Sanchez has brought a sense of calm to Chelsea’s back line. He is Maresca’s undisputed No.1 and will start between the posts once again.

Defence

RB: Reece James
With Malo Gusto sidelined by a hamstring injury picked up at Craven Cottage, club captain Reece James will retain his place at right-back. Still rediscovering his rhythm post-injury, James offers quality in central areas thanks to his frequent infield drifting—a trait that aligns perfectly with Maresca’s positional play.

CB: Trevoh Chalobah
It’s a toss-up between Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo to partner Levi Colwill in central defence. With Wesley Fofana out long-term, Chalobah has a slight edge due to his recent minutes and tactical familiarity. Expect him to get the nod, though it’s far from guaranteed.

CB: Levi Colwill
A staple in Chelsea’s league lineups this season, Colwill has experienced a campaign of highs and lows. While not always convincing, his blend of physicality and ball-playing ability is vital. He’ll be charged with neutralising Everton’s direct approach, particularly the physical threat of Beto.

LB: Marc Cucurella
Cucurella’s attacking instincts have come to the fore in recent weeks. Surprisingly one of Chelsea’s top scorers in 2024/25, his energy and willingness to break into the box could be crucial against a defensively resolute Everton side.

Midfield

CM: Moises Caicedo
Caicedo’s performances may have flown under the radar, but his consistency in the engine room has been a pillar of stability. The Ecuadorian has quietly become one of Maresca’s most trusted lieutenants, breaking up play and distributing with precision.

CM: Enzo Fernandez
Despite racking up goals, Fernandez remains somewhat polarising among fans. Maresca’s use of James in an inverted full-back role allows Enzo to push forward more freely—a dynamic that could prove fruitful against Everton’s low block.

Attack

RW: Pedro Neto
Neto’s inclusion in the winter window has started to pay dividends. His goal against Fulham was not only timely but could be the spark Chelsea need to propel them into Europe’s elite competition. Expect the Portuguese winger to keep his place on the right.

AM: Cole Palmer
Palmer was a revelation last season, but 2025 has been a different story. Maresca has toyed with his role, perhaps to the team’s detriment. Despite the experimentation, Palmer remains Chelsea’s most talented playmaker and will almost certainly start in the No.10 role.

LW: Tyrique George
George’s introduction off the bench last weekend paid immediate dividends. His maiden Premier League goal has surely earned him a full debut. With Sterling and Mudryk misfiring, George provides a fresh, fearless option out wide.

ST: Nicolas Jackson
Jackson looks like a player in need of a reset. After showing promise early in the season, his confidence has dipped. That said, Maresca’s options are limited, and Jackson remains a mobile outlet capable of stretching Everton’s backline. He’ll lead the line again.

Final Thoughts

This Chelsea side is still very much a work in progress under Enzo Maresca, but the flashes of cohesion in recent matches are cause for cautious optimism. The blend of youthful exuberance and experienced heads could be just enough to see off an Everton side still fighting for their own Premier League survival.

With just five games remaining and Champions League qualification within reach, Chelsea must capitalise on their home advantage and build momentum. All eyes will be on Stamford Bridge come Saturday afternoon.

Predicted Chelsea XI (4-2-3-1):
Robert Sanchez; Reece James, Trevoh Chalobah, Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella; Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez; Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Tyrique George; Nicolas Jackson.