Chelsea’s Anticipated Lineup Against Panathinaikos in the Conference League
As Chelsea gears up for their match against Panathinaikos on Thursday evening, it’s an opportune moment for the second-string lineup to take center stage. Under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, the team possesses ample depth, allowing for significant rotations from their regular Premier League configuration without compromising overall performance. Following a solid 4-2 win over Gent in their opening group stage match, facing off against Panathinaikos in Athens is set to pose a greater challenge.
Having endured a 2-1 defeat at Servette during the playoff round, Chelsea’s reserve side will be looking to bounce back with vigor. Maresca has built a strong rapport with this squad at Stamford Bridge thus far and is expected to make considerable changes from the side that lost at Anfield last Sunday.
Projected Starting XI Against Panathinaikos (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Filip Jorgensen
There are uncertainties surrounding Jorgensen due to a recent head injury; however, there’s optimism that he will be fit enough to feature in the lineup for this fixture.
Right Back
Axel Disasi
With Reece James’ playing time being carefully monitored and Malo Gusto likely saved for weekend action, Disasi—who provided an assist against Gent—will maintain his position on the right flank.
Center Backs
Tosin Adarabioyo
This weekend saw Adarabioyo unexpectedly capture attention from Arsenal fans after his inclusion in place of Wesley Fofana. Many felt he should have faced disciplinary action similar to William Saliba’s red card incident following a comparable foul during Bournemouth’s match.
Benoit Badiashile
Although Badiashile has frequently come off the bench in Premier League games—similarly seen last Sunday—his placement within team hierarchy sees him trailing behind Levi Colwill presently.
Left Back
Renato Veiga
Veiga emerged as one of Chelsea’s standout players during their triumph over Gent. Maresca tactically deployed him further upfield when they were on attack—a player definitely worth watching closely this Thursday.
Central Midfielders
Enzo Fernandez
Having been sidelined during Liverpool’s visit due to impressive performances by Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo, this encounter could present Fernandez with an ideal platform for re-integration into starting duties where he can excel as a deep midfielder.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
Dewsbury-Hall is finding it challenging to secure game time within Premier League fixtures; thus involvement here represents valuable minutes. He previously showcased promising skills on Matchday 1.
Right Midfielder
Pedro Neto
With Jadon Sancho’s recent performances running hot and cold since Anfield outing, it won’t be long before Neto earns his spot back within the top-flight setup—with notable impacts noted when substituted recently.
Attacking Midfielder
Joao Felix
Felix remains an eye-catching presence despite struggling significantly regarding output; while style points are high, productivity has left much wanting as of late.
Left Midfielder
Mykhaylo Mudryk
Like many squad members battling limited chances at competing levels lately, Mudryk aims to shine through these opportunities—he notably displayed flashes of brilliance previously but seeks consistency moving forward.
Striker
Christopher Nkunku
Nkunku looks poised for success across this competition—a smooth transition from initial outings led him successfully onto scoresheets right away against Gent despite being less involved throughout stretches of play.
while facing Panathinaikos presents challenges aplenty compared with previous domestic clashes—or even European tasks—the depth available may just unfold new narratives spotlighting lesser-utilized players primed for impactful showings.