Chelsea’s Premier League campaign has been a rollercoaster, and as they approach their final match of 2024 against Ipswich at Portman Road on Monday night, there is a sense of urgency to restore their momentum after a festive blip. Under manager Enzo Maresca, the Blues were flying high, but a shock loss to Everton at Goodison Park followed by a Boxing Day defeat to Fulham have raised questions about their consistency.
Despite these setbacks, Chelsea remains ahead of their projected schedule. Although the title race is likely out of their reach for this season, a top-four finish which has been the club’s primary goal still seems within grasp. With the right adjustments, the team could bounce back from this dip and mount a strong challenge for Champions League qualification.
As they prepare for their final game of the year, Maresca has a few decisions to make regarding personnel, especially in attack, with some players returning to fitness and others needing rest. Here’s a predicted lineup for Chelsea against Ipswich, including analysis of key players and tactical considerations for the match.
Chelsea’s Predicted Lineup vs Ipswich (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Robert Sanchez
Robert Sanchez has been somewhat of an enigma since his arrival at Chelsea, but in recent matches, the Spaniard has emerged as one of the club’s more reliable performers. Though his future was previously uncertain due to a series of inconsistent displays, Sanchez has stepped up when needed. His commanding presence and solid shot-stopping have helped Chelsea maintain stability at the back during a period of defensive injuries. With the competition for the number-one spot heating up, Sanchez will look to continue asserting his position as Maresca’s preferred goalkeeper for the foreseeable future.
Right-back: Malo Gusto
With Reece James edging closer to a return from injury, Chelsea fans are hopeful that their captain will be back in action soon. However, Malo Gusto is likely to retain his place at right-back against Ipswich. Gusto has been an energetic and dynamic presence on the right flank, providing excellent width and occasional attacking contributions. His pace and tenacity have made him a key part of Chelsea’s defensive unit, and while James’ return will provide competition, Gusto has proven himself to be a capable deputy.
Centre-back: Tosin Adarabioyo
The defensive options at Chelsea have been limited due to injuries, and Tosin Adarabioyo is expected to continue in central defence for this crucial clash against Ipswich. Adarabioyo, who joined Chelsea from Fulham, had a solid showing against his former club on Boxing Day despite the disappointing result. His height and physicality give Chelsea a strong aerial presence at the back, and with the absence of key defenders like Thiago Silva, he will be integral to maintaining defensive stability. Adarabioyo’s familiarity with Premier League football also makes him a valuable asset, as he has already shown an ability to handle the demands of the top flight.
Centre-back: Levi Colwill
Levi Colwill has quickly established himself as one of Chelsea’s most promising young defenders, and Maresca is likely to stick with him at the heart of the defence against Ipswich. The England international has shown maturity beyond his years and is proving himself as a key figure in Chelsea’s defensive setup. Despite still being in the early stages of his career, Colwill has shown great composure and tactical awareness, making him a cornerstone of Chelsea’s backline for years to come. With Silva out and injuries limiting options, Colwill’s importance to the team cannot be overstated.
Left-back: Marc Cucurella
In a season where many players have had inconsistent performances, Marc Cucurella has arguably been one of the standout performers in the left-back role. The Spaniard has enjoyed a rejuvenated season under Maresca and has become one of the Premier League’s best-performing full-backs. His attacking output has been impressive, with Cucurella adding goals and assists to his game, particularly evident when he scored against Brentford. His forward runs, combined with defensive solidity, make him a potent threat on the left side. Cucurella is expected to continue his fine form against Ipswich as Chelsea looks to press high and dominate possession.
Midfield: Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández
Moisés Caicedo
Moisés Caicedo has been one of the standout performers for Chelsea this season, and with Romeo Lavia sidelined by injury, the Ecuadorian international has taken on greater responsibility in midfield. Caicedo’s defensive discipline, coupled with his ability to break up opposition attacks, has made him a lynchpin in Maresca’s system. His work rate, passing range, and ability to cover ground quickly make him invaluable to Chelsea, especially in a deep-lying midfield role. As Chelsea looks to dominate possession against Ipswich, Caicedo will be crucial in ensuring that the Blues maintain control in the centre of the park.
Enzo Fernández
Enzo Fernández has been operating as the creative hub of Chelsea’s midfield, and with Lavia’s injury, he has taken on more defensive duties as well. The Argentine international is technically gifted, capable of dictating the tempo of the game with his passing and vision. Fernández’s ability to play both as a defensive and attacking midfielder provides Maresca with tactical flexibility. In recent matches, he has demonstrated his ability to link up play and provide key passes in advanced positions. With a high work rate and an eye for goal, Fernández will look to continue his impressive form against Ipswich and be the key driver in Chelsea’s attack.
Attacking Midfield: Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, and João Félix
Right-wing: Noni Madueke
Noni Madueke has had an up-and-down season but has shown flashes of brilliance, especially when operating as an inverted winger. His pace, dribbling ability, and flair on the ball make him a real threat in one-on-one situations. Maresca demands a lot from Madueke, and while he was absent from Chelsea’s squad against Fulham due to a “technical decision,” the young Englishman will likely be handed a chance to prove his worth at Ipswich. Madueke will need to continue improving his decision-making in the final third, but his talent is undeniable, and he can be a match-winner on his day.
Central-attacking Midfield: Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer has been nothing short of sensational for Chelsea this season, and he may well be the club’s most consistent performer in front of goal. No player has scored more Premier League goals for Chelsea in 2024 than Palmer, and his influence on the pitch is undeniable. His composure in tight spaces, ability to pick out key passes, and clinical finishing make him a key player for the Blues. Against Ipswich, Palmer will be tasked with unlocking a potentially stubborn defence and could be the one to make the difference in tight situations. Given the form he’s in, Palmer’s presence in the number 10 role could prove to be crucial in helping Chelsea return to winning ways.
Left-wing: João Félix
João Félix has often been used as a flexible attacking player under Maresca, capable of operating on both wings or through the middle. However, his performances have been inconsistent, and it’s possible that Maresca may bring him back into the starting lineup for this game against Ipswich, particularly given his ability to create space and link up play. Félix’s creativity and ability to float between the lines could prove key in breaking down Ipswich’s defensive structure. After being an unused substitute in Chelsea’s loss to Fulham, the Portuguese international will be keen to make an impact in the final game of 2024.
Striker: Christopher Nkunku
With Nicolas Jackson having been in excellent form this season, it’s possible that Maresca will rotate his strikers and give Christopher Nkunku a start. The French forward has shown flashes of his potential in the Premier League but has struggled for consistency. Against Ipswich, Nkunku will have an opportunity to impress and show that he can provide the clinical edge Chelsea needs in attack. His pace, dribbling, and ability to get into dangerous positions could help him unlock Ipswich’s defence, and this match might be a perfect chance for him to kickstart his Chelsea career after an underwhelming start to life in England.
Chelsea’s predicted lineup against Ipswich on Monday night is a blend of established performers and players eager to prove their worth. Maresca faces a critical period as he looks to navigate the festive fixture congestion and ensure that Chelsea finishes 2024 strong. Despite a recent blip, Chelsea is well-positioned to push for a top-four finish, and a victory at Ipswich will help them regain their confidence as they move into the second half of the season.
