A gritty FA Cup semifinal triumph over rivals Leeds United proved to be no more than a false dawn for Chelsea, who are slumping dramatically to close out a bitterly disappointing 2025–26 campaign. Yet as the Blues prepare to travel to Anfield this weekend, manager Calum McFarlane has unveiled a starting lineup and squad selection that could dramatically alter the narrative around a side many have already written off.
Champions League qualification is hanging by a thread. A wretched run of six straight Premier League defeats has left Chelsea ninth with only three matches remaining. While a break from continental football may ultimately benefit squad recovery next season, the immediate priority is stopping the rot on Merseyside — and the latest team news suggests McFarlane is prepared to roll the dice.
Bold Selections and Timely Returns
The biggest shock comes in central midfield and defense, where McFarlane has signaled a clear shift in trust. Andrey Santos is set to reclaim a starting berth alongside Moisés Caicedo in a 4-2-3-1 system. The Brazilian emerged as one of the few bright spots during the Liam Rosenior era, and his recall could inject much-needed dynamism into a midfield that has looked increasingly labored this calendar year.
At the back, Levi Colwill’s inclusion after his first appearance of the season against Nottingham Forest on Monday represents a significant statement. Having played the entire second half at the City Ground, the left-footed defender appears ready for a larger role at Anfield. He is expected to partner Tosin Adarabioyo, with Marc Cucurella continuing at left-back despite limited alternatives. Reece James, the club captain, is also in contention for minutes following his recovery, though a full start may still come too soon.
The attacking line features several players returning from minor knocks. Pedro Neto and Alejandro Garnacho are both anticipated to be available, offering pace and directness on the flanks. Jamie Gittens, hampered by a hamstring issue for much of 2026, could also feature in the matchday squad. João Pedro leads the line fresh from a superb overhead kick against Forest, providing a focal point that Chelsea desperately need if they are to upset Liverpool.
Predicted Chelsea lineup (4-2-3-1): GK: Filip Jörgensen RB: Malo Gusto CB: Tosin Adarabioyo CB: Levi Colwill LB: Marc Cucurella DM: Moisés Caicedo DM: Andrey Santos RM: Cole Palmer AM: Enzo Fernández (captain) LM: Pedro Neto ST: João Pedro
Cautious Optimism Amid Ongoing Concerns
Not all news is positive. Estêvão remains sidelined with a significant hamstring problem, while goalkeeper Robert Sánchez has been ruled out after his clash with Morgan Gibbs-White. Filip Jörgensen will start between the posts. Several other players, including Mykhailo Mudryk, carry doubts.
Nevertheless, the injection of Colwill, the potential return of James, and the recall of Santos give Chelsea a different look — one that Liverpool may not have fully anticipated. These changes address long-standing issues in build-up play and midfield control while maintaining attacking threat through Palmer, Neto, and Pedro.
Stamford Bridge has grown hostile toward the ownership in recent weeks, and traveling supporters will likely voice their frustrations again at Anfield. Yet on the pitch, there are small signs of life. A result against Liverpool would be a major statement, even if the season as a whole has fallen far short of expectations.
For a Chelsea side playing largely for pride, this bombshell roster tweak offers a glimmer of tactical surprise and renewed energy. Whether it proves enough to stun the Reds remains to be seen — but after weeks of predictability and disappointment, McFarlane has at least ensured Liverpool cannot take anything for granted on Saturday.