Predicted Chelsea line-up (4-2-3-1) vs Arsenal, James & Enzo start

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January 14, 2026 17:17 GMT (UK), by Sri Aswin

Chelsea entertain Arsenal in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final at Stamford Bridge tonight.

Ahead of the game, the Blues could be without the services of Cole Palmer due to a nagging groin issue.

Blues boss Liam Rosenior could make at least seven changes to the XI.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Predicted Line-up:

Filip Jorgensen has been the Blues’ regular goalkeeper in the Cups and he is likely to get the nod over Robert Sanchez between the sticks.

In defence, Josh Acheampong is poised to continue at right-back with Malo Gusto doubtful, but there could be changes elsewhere.

Tosin Adarabioyo and Benoit Badiashile should make way for Wesley Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah in the heart of the backline.

Marc Cucurella is set to replace Jorrel Hato in the left-back slot.

With Moises Caicedo suspended, Reece James could line up alongside Andrey Santos in the centre of the park against Arsenal.

In the final third, Rosenior could unleash Estevao on the right wing against Myles Lewis-Skelly, who has been vulnerable defensively.

Enzo Fernandes is poised to start in the number 10 role with Palmer absent. Alejandro Garnacho is a strong candidate to start on the left wing.

Liam Delap could get the nod over Joao Pedro to lead the line.

Predicted Chelsea line-up (4-2-3-1) vs Arsenal: Jorgensen; Acheampong, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; Santos, James; Estevao, Enzo, Garnacho; Delap.