It’s derby day on Monday Night Football.
Image credit: Chelsea FC
Chelsea will host West Ham United at Stamford Bridge in a crucial London derby as both teams aim to bounce back from inconsistent form.
With European football ambitions on the line, this clash promises to be a fiercely contested battle.
Current Form & Team Performance
Chelsea’s Recent Struggles
The Blues have had a difficult run of results in the Premier League, winning only one of their last seven matches.
Enzo Maresca’s side has struggled with inconsistency, most recently suffering a 3-1 defeat against Man City.
Despite the talent in their squad, Chelsea has lacked cutting edge in the final third, with missed chances proving costly in previous fixtures.
A famous #CHEWHU goal. 🤤 pic.twitter.com/bXSDU8qSDj
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 31, 2025
Sitting in sixth place, Chelsea needs a win to keep pace with the top four, and a home fixture against a struggling West Ham side could be the perfect opportunity to regain momentum.
West Ham’s Mixed Form
West Ham, under manager Graham Potter, has also experienced a tough spell, winning just once in their last six games.
Their recent 1-1 draw against Aston Villa showed resilience, but they have struggled with defensive errors and injuries in key positions.
The Hammers are currently ninth in the table and will look to turn things around with an away victory against their London rivals. With key players returning from injury, they could pose a challenge for Chelsea’s defense.
Team News & Injury Updates
Chelsea’s Injury List
- Mykhaylo Mudryk – Suspended
- Omari Kellyman – Hamstring injury
- Romeo Lavia – Thigh injury
- Wesley Fofana – Hamstring injury
- Benoît Badiashile – Thigh injury
Chelsea will have a similar squad to their last match, with Maresca expected to field his strongest available XI.
West Ham’s Squad Update
- Konstantinos Mavropanos – Returns from suspension
- Jarrod Bowen – Likely available after injury scare
- Lucas Paquetá – Doubtful (slight knock)
- Michail Antonio, Niclas Füllkrug, Crysencio Summerville, Jean-Clair Todibo – Ruled out
West Ham will be boosted by Mavropanos’ return but will have to manage without key attacking options like Antonio and Füllkrug.
Tactical Battle & Key Players to Watch
Chelsea’s Approach
Chelsea will likely dominate possession and rely on Nicolas Jackson to lead the attack. The Senegalese striker has an impressive record in London derbies, having netted 11 goals in 14 capital clashes since the start of last season.
In midfield, Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo will be crucial in controlling the tempo, while Cole Palmer’s creativity could unlock West Ham’s defense.
The Blues will look to exploit West Ham’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly on the flanks.
West Ham’s Game Plan
West Ham is expected to set up with a compact defensive structure, aiming to hit Chelsea on the counter-attack.
The potential return of Jarrod Bowen could be a game-changer, as his pace and goal-scoring ability will be key for the visitors.
Tomas Soucek and Edson Álvarez will provide stability in midfield, while Mohammed Kudus could be tasked with breaking down Chelsea’s defensive line.
Head-to-Head & Historical Context
Chelsea has dominated this fixture recently, winning their last two Premier League encounters against West Ham with a combined score of 8-0.
The Blues have been strong at home against the Hammers, and they will look to continue this trend.
Graham Potter, now leading West Ham, has an added challenge—former Chelsea managers have historically struggled against their old club.
Prediction & Final Thoughts
Both teams are in desperate need of a win, but Chelsea’s home advantage and superior squad depth could prove decisive.
West Ham will likely put up a fight, but their injury problems and defensive inconsistencies could leave them vulnerable.
Predicted Score: Chelsea 2-1 West Ham
Chelsea fans will hope to see a clinical performance, while West Ham will look to cause an upset and climb up the table. With both sides fighting for European spots, this London derby could be a thrilling encounter.