Chelsea are gearing up for their clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux, with the focus on securing their first points of the Premier League season.
After a disappointing 2-0 defeat in their season opener against Manchester City, the Blues rebounded with a 2-0 victory over Servette in the first leg of their Conference League play-off on Thursday.
In that match, Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, made several adjustments to the squad, notably giving summer signing Tosin Adarabioyo his debut.
The central defender’s performance was one of the standout moments of the game, leading to speculation that he could retain his spot in the starting lineup for the upcoming match against Wolves.
Tosin Adarabioyo’s Promising Start
Although Servette might not be the most formidable opponent Chelsea will encounter this season, the Swiss team provided a solid challenge at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea found it difficult to break through in the first half, only managing to take control in the second half, with one goal coming from a penalty.
Despite these struggles, Adarabioyo’s performance was a bright spot.
Adarabioyo emerged as one of the top-rated Chelsea players, earning a notable 7.8 rating on Sofascore.
His defensive contributions were essential—he made eight clearances, blocked three shots, and won all three of his aerial duels.
This solid display has likely given Maresca a lot to think about as he considers his options for the Wolves match.
Wesley Fofana Poised for Return
Despite Adarabioyo’s impressive debut, Wesley Fofana is expected to return to the starting lineup against Wolves.
Fofana, along with Levi Colwill, was part of the starting central defense in Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Manchester City.
However, both were rested during the Servette match as part of a strategy to manage Fofana’s minutes, particularly in light of his injury struggles last season.
Fofana missed the entire previous campaign due to a serious injury, and Maresca is carefully managing his reintroduction to the squad.
Given his rest on Thursday, Fofana is likely to start against Wolves.
However, if Adarabioyo does retain his place in the lineup, it wouldn’t be without merit.
Described as a “special player” by his former manager Marco Silva, Adarabioyo has already made a strong impression in his short time at Chelsea.
Growing Support for Noni Madueke to Start
Meanwhile, Chelsea fans have been actively expressing their desire on social media for Noni Madueke to be included in the starting lineup against Wolves.
The 22-year-old right-winger was left on the bench during the defeat to Manchester City but made a significant impact when he came on as a substitute against Servette.
Madueke scored his first goal of the season with a powerful finish using his weaker right foot, securing Chelsea’s 2-0 aggregate lead in the tie.
Madueke’s goal has fueled the supporters’ calls for him to be given a starting role in the Premier League, particularly as Chelsea aim to recover from their disappointing start to the domestic season.
Anticipation Builds for the Wolves Clash
Chelsea’s trip to Molineux is a crucial fixture as they look to kickstart their Premier League campaign.
Last season, Wolves proved to be a tough opponent for Chelsea, managing to defeat them twice.
Maresca will be determined to avoid a repeat of those results and secure Chelsea’s first league points of the new season.
Regarding team selection, Maresca has already confirmed that goalkeeper Robert Sanchez will start, according to reports from Football London.
Sanchez’s performance will be under scrutiny, particularly as Chelsea look to strengthen their defense after conceding two goals against Manchester City.
The lineup for today’s match will be closely watched, especially in terms of whether Adarabioyo and Madueke are included.
Maresca faces the challenge of balancing the need for a stable lineup with the opportunity to integrate new talents who have shown potential in recent matches.
As Chelsea aim to avoid another setback, the decisions Maresca makes regarding team selection could play a crucial role in determining the outcome at Molineux.
