Chelsea look to continue their impressive run of form as they welcome Nottingham Forest to Stamford Bridge for Sunday’s Premier League encounter.
The Blues, flying high under manager Enzo Maresca, enter the match on the back of five consecutive victories across all competitions, including a 4-2 Premier League win against Brighton & Hove Albion and a 4-2 Europa Conference League triumph over Gent.
Chelsea’s recent surge has propelled them into Champions League contention, with only Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City outperforming them on points this season. The team’s attacking prowess has been particularly noteworthy, with 15 goals representing the best offensive record in the Premier League.
“We’re in a good rhythm right now,” Maresca said in his pre-match press conference. “But Forest are a well-organized side, and we can’t underestimate them.”
Nottingham Forest, under the guidance of Nuno Espirito Santo, arrive in London looking to bounce back from their first Premier League defeat of the season, a 1-0 loss to Fulham. Despite the setback, Forest sit comfortably mid-table in 10th place.
Forest’s away form has been impressive, with 13 points from their last 15 available on the road. They also secured a shock 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge last season, although Chelsea avenged that defeat with a 3-2 victory at the City Ground.
Key to Chelsea’s attack will be Cole Palmer, who recently became the first player in Premier League history to score four goals in one half during their win over Brighton. Forest will welcome back Morgan Gibbs-White from suspension, boosting their creative options.
Chelsea’s injury list remains short, with only captain Reece James and Omari Kellyman sidelined with thigh problems. Forest will be without Ibrahim Sangare and Danilo due to thigh and ankle injuries respectively.
The match presents an intriguing tactical battle between Chelsea’s high-scoring offense and Forest’s stubborn defense, which has allowed just 18 shots on target this season – a league-low they share with Manchester City.
“We respect Chelsea’s quality, but we’ve shown we can compete with anyone, especially away from home,” Santo stated. “Our defensive organization will be crucial.”
