Overview
Bournemouth are in fine form, unbeaten in their first three games of the 2024-25 season. The Cherries drew with Nottingham Forest and Newcastle, then beat Everton 3-2 in their last game.
With an effective high-intensity pressing style, coach Andoni Iraola's team is showing glimmers of hope of finishing in the top half of the rankings.
Despite parting ways with key striker Dominic Solanke, Bournemouth's attack has not been affected much. Antoine Semenyo is performing well with 2 goals and 1 assist after 3 rounds. Speed and breakthrough ability are the strengths of the Ghanaian striker and he promises to make many more impressions.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are still struggling to find stability. They easily lost to champions Manchester City in their opening match. The Blues then surprisingly beat Wolves 6-2 but were held to a draw by Crystal Palace. Despite beating Servette in the Conference League play-offs, Chelsea still lost the return leg in a disappointing way.
Chelsea have an outstanding head-to-head record against Bournemouth, winning 4 of their last 5 matches. In 17 matches against Bournemouth, Chelsea have won 11, drawn 2 and lost 4. The Blues have not lost (won 4, drawn 2) in their last 6 meetings with Bournemouth.
However, The Blues' form is currently a bit weaker than their opponents. Therefore, a draw is entirely possible.
Human resources situation
Jadon Sancho could make his Chelsea debut this weekend after joining on loan from Manchester United, while Cole Palmer and Romeo Lavia remain doubtful.
Reece James, Malo Gusto, Omari Kellyman and Filip Jorgensen will all miss out on this game, allowing Axel Disasi to slot in at right-back.
On the other side of the front line, Kepa Arrizabalaga will not be able to play due to contract terms. With Neto moving to Arsenal, Mark Travers will be the one to guard the goal for Bournemouth.
In addition, Bournemouth's personnel situation has not changed much. Enes Unal and Tyler Adams are still unable to play, while Philip Billing's ability to play is also unclear.
Expected lineup:
Bournemouth: Travers, Araujo, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez, Scott, Cook, Semenyo, Kluivert, Siniterra, Evanilson.
Chelsea: Sanchez, Disasi, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella, Fernandez, Caicedo, Madueke, Palmer, Felix, Jackson.
The match between Bournemouth and Chelsea takes place at 2:00 a.m. on September 15 (Vietnam time).
