Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has warned that Fulham will not be underestimated as Chelsea host their London rivals in a crucial Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, with the match kicking off at 12:30pm and a potential early move to the top of the table on offer with victory.
The fixture marks Chelsea’s return to their home ground for a capital derby, the latest in a season where Maresca is stressing depth and adaptability as the team looks to build on recent momentum. Fulham, managed by Marco Silva, have been building year on year and finished 11th last season, a club-record points tally that Maresca says underlines the quality in their squad. “They are solid, they are well organised, play nice football, are very strong, and it’s not random that they are doing well,” the Italian said. “Last year was a record for points in the Premier League for Fulham. It shows how good Marco is and the players are. It’s a game, like always, where we have to be careful.”
In last week’s away win at West Ham United, Maresca experimented with his forward line by starting Joao Pedro alongside Liam Delap. Asked whether such pairings will become a regular feature, he emphasized that Chelsea have a flexible approach, focusing on the right plan to break down each opponent. “We have been the team with more changes in the entire season, last season, so I am not looking for just two players to play always,” he said. “I’m looking for different solutions. For sure, they can play together, but it’s the game plan that demands whether it is one or both. So, we will see.”
Saturday’s game also represents Chelsea’s last match before the first international break of the season, giving the squad a rare window to recharge after a tight schedule that followed the FIFA Club World Cup final. Maresca noted that those players not going away with their national teams will need to recover energy, while stressing there will be no holiday for the squad as they aim to return refreshed.
With the early kickoff, a win would lift Chelsea to the summit of the table, adding extra incentive to secure three points against their west London rivals. Digital tickets are being issued for all Stamford Bridge matches this season, and Chelsea have urged supporters to arrive early to ensure they’re in their seats for kick-off.
What to watch
– Maresca’s tactical choices: how the boss balances experimentation with proven performers as he seeks the best combinations to unlock stubborn defences, including the Pedro-Delap pairing possibilities.
– Fulham’s balance: how Silva’s experienced, well-organised side approach this test and whether they can carry last season’s momentum into this campaign.
– Rest and recovery: how the short international break after this game impacts players who will be away and those staying to train, with Maresca aiming to maximize energy levels after the match.
Summary: Chelsea face a stern test against Fulham in a high-stakes London derby that doubles as a chance to top the league if they win. Maresca is rotating his attack to find the most effective combinations while managing player fatigue ahead of the international break, and the early kickoff adds extra urgency to secure three points at home. Positive outlook: a strong performance and a win could spark momentum and reinforce Chelsea’s depth as the season progresses.