Chelsea vs Ajax: Predicted Lineups, Team News, Injury Updates – Palmer and Fernandez Absent for Champions League Return
Chelsea is set to clash with Ajax in the UEFA Champions League on October 22, 2025. The match will take place at Stamford Bridge in London, kicking off at 8 p.m. local time.
Chelsea’s Current Form
The Blues have experienced a mixed start to their Champions League campaign after returning to the tournament. Following a defeat to Bayern Munich, they secured a 1-0 victory over Benfica. Chelsea currently boasts three consecutive wins across all competitions.
At home, Chelsea has only lost once this season, underscoring their strength at Stamford Bridge. They will aim to leverage this advantage against Ajax.
Ajax’s Struggles
Ajax has faced difficulties in their European outings. They have lost both of their games in the tournament so far, with a 2-0 defeat at home to Inter Milan and a 4-0 loss away to Marseille. Their recent league form was also disappointing, as they lost 2-0 to AZ, leaving them fourth in the Dutch Eredivisie.
Team News and Injury Updates
For Chelsea, Enzo Maresca will be missing key players. Cole Palmer is sidelined until December with a groin injury, and Enzo Fernandez sustained a knee injury on international duty. Malo Gusto will serve a domestic suspension but could play against Ajax, while Joao Pedro is banned for one UEFA Champions League match.
Predicted Lineups
Below are the expected starting XI for both teams:
- Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Sanchez (GK), James, Acheampong, Chalobah, Cucurella, Lavia, Caicedo, Neto, Santos, Garnacho, Estevao
- Ajax (4-5-1): Jaros (GK), Rosa, Itakura, Baas, Gaaei, Regeer, Klaassen, Gloukh, Taylor, Godts, Weghorst
Injury and Suspension List
Here’s an overview of the injury and suspension status of both teams:
| Team | Injuries | Suspensions |
|---|---|---|
| Chelsea | Colwill (ACL), Badiashile (muscle), Palmer (groin), Delap (thigh), Essugo (thigh), Fernandez (knee) | Joao Pedro (red card), Mudryk (doping) |
| Ajax | Konadu (muscle), Wijndal (muscle, doubt), Dolberg (abdomen, doubt) | None |
Match Details
- Date: October 22, 2025
- Kickoff: 8 p.m. local / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT / 6 a.m. AEDT (October 23)
- Location: Stamford Bridge, London, England
- Competition: UEFA Champions League, Matchday 3
- Referee: Felix Zwayer (GER)
- VAR: Soren Storks (GER)
This match presents an opportunity for Chelsea to solidify their position in the UEFA Champions League and for Ajax to seek redemption after a rocky start.
