As the 2023/24 Premier League season draws to a close, Chelsea host Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge with a significant opportunity to secure European football for the next season.
Currently in the hunt for a fifth-place finish, Chelsea needs a win and for Tottenham to drop points in their fixture.
Bournemouth, having improved their league position from last season, will look to end their campaign on a positive note, though they have no stakes left in the final standings.
Chelsea’s Pursuit of Europe:
Chelsea enters this fixture riding high on the back of four consecutive home league wins.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side has shown resilience and determination, giving them a fighting chance to finish fifth if results elsewhere go their way.
Pochettino has a strong record against Bournemouth, having lost just once in nine meetings (W6, D2, L1).
The outcome of this match could also impact his own future at the club, adding an extra layer of significance to this clash.
Bournemouth’s Steady Improvement:
Bournemouth, managed by Andoni Iraola, has little to play for in terms of league position, but they have shown notable improvement this season, set to finish at least 13th compared to last season’s 15th-place finish.
This improvement has earned Iraola a contract extension until 2025/26.
Bournemouth will be looking to cap off their season with a strong performance at Stamford Bridge, aiming to build momentum for the next campaign.
Emotional Farewells:
This match may also be an emotional occasion for several players.
Chelsea’s veteran defender Thiago Silva is set to play his final game for the club, while the futures of Conor Gallagher and Trevor Chalobah remain uncertain, potentially marking their last appearances in a Chelsea shirt.
For Bournemouth, striker Dominic Solanke might be making his farewell appearance as well.
Key Players to Watch:
Chelsea:
Trevor Chalobah: Chalobah has been pivotal in Chelsea’s recent defensive solidity, contributing significantly to their winning streak.
His performance will be crucial in ensuring Chelsea secure the vital three points.
Bournemouth:
Dominic Solanke: Solanke will be looking to secure his second 20+ goal league season.
Notably, each of his last four goals has been a team opener, highlighting his importance in setting the tone for Bournemouth’s attacks.
Potential Lineups:
Chelsea: 4-2-3-1 : Petrovic; Gusto, Chalobah, Silva, Cucurella; Caicedo, Gallagher; Madueke, Palmer, Nkunku; Jackson.
Bournemouth: 4-2-3-1 : Travers; Smith, Zebarnyi, Senesi, Kelly; Christie, Cook; Semenyo, Kluivert, Outtara; Solanke.
Score Prediction: Chelsea 3-0 Bournemouth
Where to watch:
United Kingdom: Sky Sports Main Event
United States: NBCSN
Canada: Fubo Sports Network
India: Star Sports Select HD
Australia: Optus Sport
Nigeria: SuperSports.
Conclusion:
As Chelsea and Bournemouth face off in this final Premier League fixture, both teams have different motivations driving them.
Chelsea aims to secure European football and finish the season on a high, while Bournemouth looks to continue their upward trajectory under Iraola.
With potential farewells adding an emotional edge to the match, fans can expect a competitive and heartfelt encounter at Stamford Bridge.
The performances of key players like Chalobah and Solanke will be pivotal, as both sides look to end their season with a memorable result.
