Chelsea head back into Premier League action this weekend at Turf Moor, and the spotlight is on the Chelsea predicted XI vs Burnley. The Blues have enjoyed this fixture in recent years, winning their last five visits with a combined 19โ3 scoreline. But the bigger issue for Enzo Maresca is managing his squad. With Barcelona and Arsenal coming to Stamford Bridge within the next few days, he must rotate wisely while keeping the team strong enough to maintain their momentum. This match will show how he handles the balance between keeping players fresh and keeping results steady.
Fitness Concerns Shape the Chelsea Predicted XI vs Burnley
The demanding week ahead has a direct impact on the Chelsea predicted XI vs Burnley, especially in defence and midfield. Robert Sรกnchez should remain in goal after Filip Jorgensenโs push for a January exit. Malo Gusto will be in the first XI to start at right-back while Reece James is saved for the bigger clashes in upcoming matches.
Wesley Fofana ties up the defence, and he will likely be joined by Josh Acheampong. Who returned from England Under-21 duty with worthy minutes.
On the left, Jorrel Hato will get the chance to play in his natural position after a difficult night at centre-back against Qarabag. Turf Moor offers him a bigger, serene stage to rebuild confidence.
In midfield, Maresca is set to bring Enzo Fernรกndez back into the starting lineup. Despite missing the international break due to fitness concerns.
Fernรกndez is believed to be ready. Andrey Santos should partner him as Moisรฉs Caicedo rests after a long trip and heavy playing time in South America. Santos offers energy and smart ball movement, ideal for a match where Chelsea expect plenty of possession.
Attacking Options Add Depth to the Chelsea Predicted XI vs Burnley
The attacking third gives Maresca several choices, and that depth becomes crucial when shaping the Chelsea predicted XI vs Burnley. Pedro Neto is still expected to start on the right wing. Even with Estevรฃo Willian pushing hard for more minutes. Netoโs lack of involvement with Portugal during the break gives him fresher legs and a slight edge.
In the No. 10 role, Joรฃo Pedro finally gets the chance to play in his most natural position. He has carried much of the attacking burden as a forward in recent matches.
And this shift should allow him more freedom to create. His sharp movement between the lines gives Chelsea the link they often miss when their midfield stays deep.
On the left, Alejandro Garnacho remains one of Marescaโs most in-form players. His direct running, improved discipline, and strong work rate have turned him into a reliable threat.
Chelsea will look to him for early energy, especially against a Burnley team that may sit deep and guard their box.
Liam Delap starts up front as he keeps chasing his first Premier League goal. He works hard, presses well, and holds the ball up for others. Even without scoring, he has helped the team. With more minutes and a steady run of games, Delap should find his finish soon.
Authorโs Opinion
Chelsea enter this match with confidence, but rotation always brings a few unknowns. Marescaโs planned changes make sense, especially with back-to-back high-intensity fixtures coming in quick succession. The predicted lineup mixes experience with hunger, allowing Chelsea to control the game while avoiding unnecessary fatigue.
Burnley will not make life easy. But Blues should still have enough creativity and defensive stability to extend their strong run at Turf Moor. The real test is not just the result, but how well this rotated squad performs under pressure. If the players in the Chelsea predicted XI vs Burnley take their chance, the team will be in a strong position heading into the defining week ahead.
