Chelsea vs Sunderland Match Preview” border=”0″ />Date: Saturday, 25th October 2025
Kick-off: 3:00 pm
Venue: Stamford Bridge
Referee: Andrew Madley (England)
Goal Scorer:
Team Updates
Chelsea
Chelsea will be without Malo Gusto, who faces suspension following a red card in their recent victory over Nottingham Forest. The squad is further weakened by injuries: Cole Palmer is sidelined with a groin injury, Liam Delap is out due to a hamstring strain, Levi Colwill remains unavailable after an ACL injury, and Dario Essugo is recovering from a thigh problem. Benoit Badiashile is also ruled out with a muscle strain, while Mykhaylo Mudryk continues to serve a doping suspension.
The anticipated return of captain Reece James at right-back could see Moises Caicedo shift back into midfield, potentially partnering Enzo Fernandez in a double pivot if Estevao continues to impress in the attacking midfield role.
Joao Pedro, having completed his Champions League suspension, is expected to spearhead the attack, likely taking the place of former Sunderland loanee Guiu. He may be supported on the flanks by Pedro Neto and either Alejandro Garnacho or Jamie Gittens.
Predicted Chelsea Starting XI:
Sanchez; James, Tosin, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Estevao, Garnacho; Pedro
Sunderland
Sunderland’s manager Le Bris has confirmed that Omar Alderete will miss out due to concussion protocols. Other players sidelined include Habib Diarra (groin), Romaine Mundle (hamstring), Dennis Cirkin (wrist), Aji Alese (shoulder), and Leo Hjelde (Achilles tendon).
On a positive note, Reinildo Mandava returns after serving a three-game suspension and is expected to slot back in at left-back. This change will likely push Mukiele into central defense alongside Daniel Ballard to cover for Alderete’s absence.
Chemsdine Talbi impressed off the bench against Wolves and could earn a starting berth on the right wing, potentially replacing former Chelsea winger Bertrand Traore. Enzo Le Fee is set to operate on the left flank, with Wilson Isidor leading Sunderland’s attack.
Projected Sunderland Starting Lineup:
Roefs; Hume, Mukiele, Ballard, Reinildo; Rigg, Xhaka, Sadiki; Talbi, Isidor, Le Fee
Match Forecast: Chelsea 2-1 Sunderland