Match Preview: Chelsea return against Bournemouth with ownership drama looming over Enzo Maresca

Chelsea travel to the Vitality Stadium to face an unbeaten Bournemouth side in what promises to be a crucial Premier League clash.

Both teams are keen to maintain momentum as they continue their respective campaigns, with Bournemouth riding high after a dramatic comeback win, while Chelsea will be eager to shake off recent frustrations.

Bournemouth’s Form :

Bournemouth have made a strong start to the 2024/25 season, sitting 8th in the Premier League table. Their most recent match saw them pull off a stunning 3-2 comeback victory against Everton, scoring three goals in the final three minutes to overturn a 2-0 deficit.

That win extended their unbeaten start to the season, and they’ll be full of confidence heading into this clash with Chelsea.

Key player Marcus Tavernier has been in exceptional form and will be pivotal to Bournemouth’s attacking play.

The Cherries will be aiming to maintain their unbeaten status and push further up the table with another strong performance against a top-six hopeful.

Chelsea’s Struggles :

Chelsea have had a mixed start to the season, currently sitting 11th in the Premier League. They managed back-to-back wins against Servette and Wolves, but recent results have been disappointing.

A 2-1 loss to Servette in the Europa Conference League qualifiers and a 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace have left the Blues needing to regain their form.

Injuries have hit Chelsea hard, with captain Reece James, Malo Gusto, and Romeo Lavia all sidelined.

On a positive note, fans might see the debut of Manchester United loanee Jadon Sancho, adding an extra layer of excitement for the Blues’ attack.

Cole Palmer will also be one to watch, with four goal contributions in three Premier League games this season, and having just won the Premier League Goal of the Month for August.

Head-to-Head :

Chelsea have historically dominated this fixture, winning 14 of their 21 previous meetings against Bournemouth.

However, Bournemouth have managed some memorable upsets, including victories at Stamford Bridge in 2018 and 2019. Chelsea’s last visit to the Vitality Stadium ended in a 1-1 draw, highlighting the challenge that the Cherries can pose on their home turf.

Key Players to Watch :

Marcus Tavernier (Bournemouth): The attacking midfielder has been Bournemouth’s standout player this season, contributing to their unbeaten start and helping secure their dramatic comeback against Everton.

Cole Palmer (Chelsea): The young forward has been in fantastic form for the Blues, with four goal contributions in his last three games. He will be crucial in Chelsea’s bid to secure three points.

Potential Lineups:

Bournemouth: 4-2-3-1 – Travers; Araujo, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez; Scott, Cook; Semenyo, Kluivert, Sinisterra; Evanilson

Chelsea: 4-2-3-1 – Sanchez; Disasi, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Enzo; Madueke, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson.

Score Prediction: Bournemouth 1-3 Chelsea

Where to watch:

United Kingdom: Sky Sports

United States: Peacock

Canada: Fubo Sports Network

India: Star Sports Network and Hotstar

Australia: Optus Sport

Nigeria: SuperSports.

Conclusion

This match promises to be an exciting encounter between an unbeaten Bournemouth side and a Chelsea team looking to rediscover consistency.

Chelsea will need to overcome their injury concerns and recent mixed performances if they are to leave the Vitality Stadium with a win, while Bournemouth will aim to continue their impressive start to the season and push further up the table.