Chelsea’s backup squad is gearing up for an important test this Thursday as they face Panathinaikos in the UEFA Conference League.
This game provides a crucial platform for several players, many of whom are not regular starters, to impress manager Enzo Maresca and potentially earn more prominent roles in the team as the season progresses.
One of Chelsea’s major advantages this season has been their squad depth, which allows Maresca to rotate players without compromising the team’s overall quality on the field.
With the demanding nature of the Premier League, it is essential for the club to manage player workloads effectively.
The upcoming European fixture offers an ideal opportunity to rest some key first-team players while giving others a chance to prove themselves.
Chelsea’s European journey began on a positive note, with a solid 4-2 win over Belgian club Gent. However, their away match in Athens is expected to be more challenging.
The intense atmosphere in Greece is well known, and Panathinaikos is likely to present a sterner test compared to their previous opponents.
Coming off the back of a narrow 2-1 loss to Liverpool at Anfield, Maresca will likely make several changes to keep his team fresh and motivated for the battle ahead.
In goal, Filip Jorgensen could return after concerns over a recent head injury.
His performance will be closely monitored, as competition for the goalkeeper position has intensified, and this game provides an important opportunity for Jorgensen to regain form and secure his place in the squad.
At right-back, Axel Disasi is expected to step in, with Reece James being carefully managed and Malo Gusto likely to be rested for the weekend’s Premier League fixture.
Disasi impressed in Chelsea’s previous European outing, where he contributed an assist against Gent, and he will be aiming to build on that performance to solidify his position as a dependable defensive option.
In central defense, Tosin Adarabioyo will be looking to bounce back from recent controversy.
His involvement in a contentious challenge during a Premier League game has put him in the spotlight, but he will be eager to put that behind him with a strong performance in Athens.
Alongside him, Benoit Badiashile is another player looking to make an impact.
With limited Premier League minutes so far, Badiashile will hope to use the Conference League as a platform to prove he is ready for more significant responsibilities.
Renato Veiga, who impressed in the match against Gent, is set to feature at left-back.
Known for his ability to transition smoothly between defense and attack, Veiga’s versatility will be key for Chelsea as they look to maintain control of the game.
His advanced role when the team dominates possession could be a crucial factor in breaking down Panathinaikos’ defense.
In midfield, Enzo Fernandez is likely to return after missing the defeat to Liverpool.
The Argentine playmaker will be tasked with controlling the tempo of the game and dictating Chelsea’s play from deep.
Alongside him, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who has found Premier League opportunities limited, will be eager to impress after a strong showing in the opening European fixture.
Pedro Neto, whose pace and directness have been valuable in domestic matches, will aim to make a case for more playing time.
If Jadon Sancho continues to struggle, Neto could soon find himself in contention for a starting spot in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Joao Felix will be keen to showcase his creativity, though questions remain about his overall consistency and end product.
Mykhaylo Mudryk is another player looking to break into the starting lineup.
The Ukrainian winger showed flashes of brilliance in his last European outing, but he will need to deliver a more consistent performance if he hopes to challenge for a regular spot in Maresca’s first team.
Up front, Christopher Nkunku will lead the attack after scoring in the previous European match.
The French striker’s clinical finishing makes him a constant threat, and he will be looking to add to his tally as Chelsea aim for another important victory in their Conference League campaign.
As Chelsea prepare for this crucial match in Athens, it will be up to these fringe players to prove they can step up and contribute when called upon.
A strong showing could see several of them force their way into Maresca’s plans for bigger matches in the future.
