Chelsea players against Bournemouth

With the Premier League back in action after the international break, several Chelsea players have returned from international matches, while others have remained at Cobham to train. Based on the performances we’ve seen from Bournemouth and Chelsea in their opening matches this season, we’re in for an exciting encounter at the Vitality Stadium.

Bournemouth have had 46 shots on goal – the third highest number in the league – with an expected goals ratio (xG) of 5.85. On the other hand, Chelsea’s games this season have been characterised by a chaotic mix of attacking intensity and defensive weakness. Bournemouth’s attacking energy combined with Chelsea’s unpredictability promises a game of even keel.

After a physically demanding and gruelling international break, some of Chelsea’s regular players may be exhausted, giving substitutes the opportunity to step up and make an impression.

At The pride of Londonwe introduce three substitutes who could give Chelsea the momentum they need to overcome a brave Bournemouth side at the Vitality Stadium.

The French international has slipped down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge under Maresca this season, but with both Chelsea captain Reece James and Malo Gusto out through injury, Disasi is likely to take on the right-back role in this clash at the Vitality Stadium.

Having featured mainly in Chelsea’s Conference League matches this season, Disasi will relish the opportunity to prove his worth again. The right-back position is not a new one for him, having played there before, so he should find it easy to adapt to the role.

Chelsea’s midfield engines Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo have been busy with their national teams during the international break. Caicedo in particular played the full 90 minutes in both games and could feel the impact in what promises to be a high-intensity match against a Bournemouth side who have already had 46 shots on goal this season.

Bournemouth also rank fourth in the Premier League in passes per defensive action (PPDA), suggesting fans could be in for a neck-and-neck race.

With Roméo Lavia out through injury, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is the most logical choice to add some much-needed toughness to the midfield. Dewsbury-Hall has only played 38 minutes in the Premier League so far and will be keen to impress and earn Maresca’s trust – especially having previously worked under him at Leicester.

The former Borussia Dortmund and Manchester United winger is yet to make his debut for Chelsea following a late move during the transfer window. Sancho, who enjoyed a successful loan spell at Dortmund last season and helped the team reach the Champions League final, will be keen to make his mark in a Chelsea shirt.

Although Chelsea’s left wing is overshadowed by strong competition – Mykhailo Mudryk, João Félix, Christopher Nkunku and Pedro Neto are all vying for that spot – the position is still up for grabs for anyone willing to claim it.

Sancho will no doubt be keen to seize the opportunity and prove his worth in what could be his debut for Chelsea, and a strong performance in this highly anticipated clash would be the perfect way to introduce himself to the Blues’ fans and supporters.

With several key players hampered by injuries and fatigue from international duty, the depth of Chelsea’s squad will be tested in what should be an exciting clash against Bournemouth.