Chelsea vs Fulham Team News: Palmer OUT, Sanchez Starts, Delap Upfront

According to SaedNews: Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has named an unchanged side for the West London derby at Stamford Bridge, with Cole Palmer ruled out through a groin problem sustained in pre-match warmups last week — a setback that sees Liam Delap lead the attack with João Pedro playing as the No.10.

What’s the injury picture?

Cole Palmer — who pulled up in a warm-up before the West Ham match and missed that game — will not feature against Fulham as the club manages the groin issue day-by-day. Midfielders Roméo Lavia and defender Benoît Badiashile remain sidelined and are not expected back until after the international break.

Confirmed XI & tactical tweak

Maresca has kept the same XI that started at West Ham: Sánchez in goal; Gusto, Tosin, Chalobah and Cucurella across the back; Caicedo and Fernández in midfield; Estêvão and João Pedro in advanced roles; Neto and Delap in attack. The notable tactical call is continuing Delap as a central striker with João Pedro operating as the creative No.10.

Transfer & squad context to watch

Nicolás Jackson is absent from the squad as he finalises a loan move to Bayern, while Christopher Nkunku has joined AC Milan — changes that reshape Chelsea’s attacking options this week. Keep an eye on late windows activity: Chelsea were also reported to be closing in on Alejandro Garnacho at the time of these team announcements.