Stamford Bridge played host to an exciting Premier League clash between Chelsea and Crystal Palace this Sunday, marking the beginning of the 2025/26 season for both clubs.

Chelsea, under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, are looking to build on their Club World Cup success and mount a serious title challenge this year. However, the Blues have been hit with injury concerns early on. Levi Colwill is a significant absentee, having undergone surgery for an ACL injury sustained in training. Tosin Adarabioyo has also been ruled out as a precautionary measure after picking up a knock in training. Benoit Badiashile and Romeo Lavia are still in the process of returning to full fitness.

Despite these setbacks, there was positive news for Chelsea fans, as Trevoh Chalobah was declared fit to play against his former club. Summer signing Jamie Gittens is set to make his Premier League debut, starting in the lineup. The confirmed Chelsea lineup sees Robert Sanchez in goal, with Reece James, Trevoh Chalobah, Josh Acheampong, and Marc Cucurella forming the backline. Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez start in midfield, with Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, and Gittens supporting Joao Pedro in attack. New signings Jorrel Hato, Dario Essugo, Estevao and Liam Delap were named among the substitutes.

Crystal Palace, managed by Oliver Glasner, are coming off the back of an impressive FA Cup win against Manchester City and a Community Shield victory over Liverpool. Glasner has instilled a belief in his squad that they can compete with any team in the Premier League. Eberechi Eze starts for Crystal Palace despite transfer interest from Tottenham Hotspur. Dean Henderson starts in goal, with a back five of Marc Guehi, Christ Richards, Maxence Lacroix, Daniel Munoz and Tyrick Mitchell. Adam Wharton partners Will Hughes in midfield, with Ismaila Sarr, Eberechi Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta leading the line.

The match is a London derby, adding extra spice to the occasion. Chelsea are considered the world champions after their Club World Cup victory, but Crystal Palace are the current FA Cup holders, making for an intriguing contest.

Ahead of the game, several Chelsea players hinted at their involvement by posting matchday graphics on their Instagram stories, including Joao Pedro, Jorrel Hato, and Moises Caicedo. Reece James was also featured on the club's matchday graphic.

With both teams having ambitions for the season, the game promises to be a fascinating encounter. Chelsea will be looking to overcome their injury problems and start the season strongly, while Crystal Palace will be aiming to continue their impressive form and prove they can compete with the top teams in the league.