Chelsea Starting XI vs Ipswich: Predicted lineup and confirmed team news | OneFootball

Palmer Poised for Chelsea Return as Ipswich Clash Looms

Cole Palmer is set to lead the line for Chelsea against Ipswich on Sunday as he searches for a return to scoring form following a 13-game goal drought. Despite being withdrawn at half-time in Thursday’s 3-0 Europa Conference League win over Legia Warsaw, manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the decision was pre-planned, easing concerns of any injury setback.

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Key Players Back in the Frame

Robert Sanchez is expected to regain his spot in goal, with Maresca reaffirming his status as Chelsea’s first choice ahead of Filip Jorgensen. Nicolas Jackson may also be recalled after returning from a hamstring injury, having been rested for both the Brentford stalemate and the European win in Warsaw. If selected, he’s likely to replace Christopher Nkunku, who struggled to make an impact and missed a second-half penalty in Poland.

Midfield could see a reshuffle, with Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo primed to re-enter the starting XI. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is expected to make way after two consecutive starts. Levi Colwill, who featured as a substitute midweek, is likely to slot in at centre-back alongside Tosin Adarabioyo, replacing Benoît Badiashile.

Madueke Stakes His Claim

One of the standout performers in Warsaw, Noni Madueke, scored twice off the bench and is pushing for a starting berth. With Palmer expected to occupy the central role and Andrey Santos unavailable due to registration issues, Maresca may turn to Madueke’s sharpness and form to add attacking thrust.

Injuries Continue to Shape Squad

Marc Guiu remains sidelined, but Maresca offered hope of a return before season’s end. Romeo Lavia remains a doubt for the Ipswich game. “Hopefully, we can get Romeo very soon,” said Maresca. “I don’t know if for the next game [against Ipswich], but he looks quite good in terms of he can be back soon.”

Wesley Fofana and Omari Kellyman are ruled out for the season, while Mykhailo Mudryk remains unavailable.

Predicted Chelsea XI (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; JacksonInjured: Fofana, KellymanKick-off: 2pm BST, Sunday April 13, 2025