Chelsea’s second-string squad is set to showcase their talents this Thursday as they take on Panathinaikos in the UEFA Conference League. The match offers an exciting opportunity for these players, many of whom are on the fringes of the first team, to impress manager Enzo Maresca and stake their claim for more significant roles in the squad moving forward.
One of Chelsea’s key strengths this season has been the depth of their squad, a luxury that allows Maresca to rotate his players without drastically lowering the quality on the pitch. With the rigorous demands of the Premier League, it is essential for Chelsea to manage their resources effectively. This European fixture gives the manager a chance to rest some of his regular starters while giving those waiting in the wings an opportunity to step up.
Chelsea’s European campaign began positively, with a solid 4-2 victory over Belgian side Gent. However, an away trip to Athens will provide a sterner test. The atmosphere in Greece is notoriously intimidating, and Panathinaikos is expected to be a more formidable opponent than Gent. This test comes off the back of a 2-1 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, and Maresca is likely to make changes to the squad to ensure they are fresh and motivated for the challenge ahead.
GK: Filip Jorgensen – There have been concerns about Filip Jorgensen’s availability due to a head injury, but it seems increasingly likely that he will be fit to feature. Jorgensen’s performance will be closely watched, as his position in the squad remains under scrutiny, especially with competition for the goalkeeper spot heating up. If cleared, this will be an important outing for the young keeper to regain form and confidence.
RB: Axel Disasi – With Chelsea managing Reece James’ fitness and Malo Gusto expected to rest for the upcoming weekend fixture, Axel Disasi will once again slot into the right-back position. Disasi impressed in Chelsea’s opening European match, providing an assist against Gent. He will be looking to build on that performance and cement his place as a reliable defensive option.
CB: Tosin Adarabioyo – Tosin Adarabioyo was at the center of controversy following his performance in the Premier League over the weekend. His involvement in a challenge that many Arsenal fans felt deserved a red card has put him in the spotlight. However, Adarabioyo has shown he can handle the pressure and will be keen to put the controversy behind him with a solid performance in Athens. His physical presence and ability to read the game make him a key figure in Chelsea’s defensive lineup.
CB: Benoit Badiashile – Benoit Badiashile has struggled for consistent Premier League minutes, with his opportunities mostly limited to substitute appearances. Despite his brief run-out at Anfield, he is not expected to displace Levi Colwill as a first-choice center-back anytime soon. Nevertheless, the Conference League presents him with a platform to show Maresca that he is ready for more significant involvement, especially with the team juggling multiple competitions.
LB: Renato Veiga – One of the standout performers in the match against Gent, Renato Veiga has impressed with his ability to transition from defense to attack seamlessly. The former Basel defender played a more advanced midfield role when Chelsea dominated possession, offering an adventurous presence on the left flank. His versatility will be crucial in this match, and he is certainly one to watch as the Blues seek another victory.
CM: Enzo Fernandez – Enzo Fernandez was notably absent from the defeat to Liverpool, as Maresca opted to start both Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo in the midfield. This match offers the Argentine international a chance to return to the fold. Known for his composure on the ball and vision, Fernandez will likely assume a deep-lying playmaker role, tasked with controlling the tempo and dictating the play from midfield. His return to the lineup could be pivotal in ensuring Chelsea maintain dominance in possession.
CM: Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – Despite being a talented player, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has found his Premier League opportunities limited. His focus will now shift to making an impact in the Conference League. Dewsbury-Hall’s all-around ability makes him a valuable asset, and after a solid performance on Matchday 1, he will be determined to put in another strong showing to push for a regular starting spot in the Premier League.
RM: Pedro Neto – Pedro Neto’s explosive pace and directness have been a valuable asset off the bench, particularly in Chelsea’s domestic matches. If Jadon Sancho continues to underperform, Neto could soon find himself in the starting lineup for Premier League fixtures. His energy and willingness to take on defenders make him a key attacking outlet, and he will be eager to impress once again in Athens.
AM: Joao Felix – Joao Felix continues to dazzle with moments of flair, but questions remain about his overall productivity. While his technical skills are undeniable, his contributions have not always been consistent. This match presents another chance for Felix to demonstrate his worth, and Maresca will be hoping that he can translate his creativity into more tangible results.
LM: Mykhaylo Mudryk – Like several of his Chelsea teammates, Mykhaylo Mudryk has found it difficult to break into the starting lineup in the Premier League. Matches like this provide a crucial opportunity for the Ukrainian winger to showcase his abilities. His pace and dribbling make him a dangerous attacking threat, and while he showed flashes of brilliance against Gent, he will need to deliver a more consistent performance if he wants to challenge for a regular place.
ST: Christopher Nkunku – Christopher Nkunku has hit the ground running in this competition, scoring in the win over Gent. The French striker is expected to be one of the key players in Chelsea’s Conference League campaign. His ability to find the back of the net, even when not heavily involved in general play, makes him a constant threat. Nkunku will be hungry for more goals as he aims to lead Chelsea to another important victory in Europe.
As Chelsea prepare for this crucial encounter in Athens, all eyes will be on these fringe players to see if they can deliver. A strong performance could see some of them force their way into Maresca’s plans for more signific
ant fixtures in the future.