Get ready for an exciting Champions League clash as Chelsea FC takes on Napoli! But here's a twist: this match could be a make-or-break moment for Chelsea's European campaign.
Chelsea's Starting XI: A Balancing Act
Chelsea's manager, Rosenior, has some tough decisions to make with his lineup. With a few injuries to consider, the team news is a mix of good and bad.
The good news? Second-choice goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, who suffered an injury against Pafos, has made a quicker-than-expected recovery and is back in the squad. This provides some much-needed depth in goal.
However, Chelsea will still be without Tosin Adarabioyo and Dario Essugo, who picked up injuries in recent matches. Longer-term absentees Levi Colwill and Romeo Lavia are also out, though Lavia is making progress in his recovery.
And here's where it gets controversial... Rosenior has a choice to make up front. Will he go with the in-form Liam Delap or opt for the experienced Joao Pedro? It's a tough call, but Rosenior might decide to rest Estevao, the hero of Sunday's match, and bring in Pedro Neto and Alejandro Garnacho to freshen things up.
So, our predicted Chelsea XI (4-2-3-1) looks like this: Sanchez; James, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho; Delap.
Injured players to note: Lavia, Colwill, Tosin, and Essugo.
Why This Match Matters
Chelsea is aiming for a strong finish in the Champions League to avoid the extra games of a play-off round. Currently sitting in eighth place, a win against Napoli could secure their position and a direct entry into the next stage.
Match Details
- When: 8 pm GMT, Wednesday, January 28, 2026
- Where: Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, Naples
- How to Watch: TNT Sports
So, football fans, what do you think? Will Chelsea's lineup choices pay off? Are they taking the right approach to secure their place in the Champions League? Let's discuss in the comments!
