In a significant and somewhat surprising team selection at Stamford Bridge, interim manager Calum McFarlane has handed 18-year-old academy graduate Jesse Derry his full senior debut for Chelsea in this afternoon’s Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest.
Derry, who joined the Blues from Crystal Palace last summer, lines up on the left-hand side of the attack in what is just his third senior appearance for the club. The decision comes with no place in the squad for either Pedro Neto or Alejandro Garnacho, marking a notable omission for the latter and underlining McFarlane’s willingness to trust youth in a crucial league fixture.
The Chelsea starting XI shows a blend of experience and emerging talent. In goal is Robert Sanchez, shielded by a back four of Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo and Marc Cucurella. Tosin continues his strong partnership with Chalobah at the heart of defence, while Gusto and Cucurella provide width and balance on the flanks.
In midfield, Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo form a solid central duo, with Enzo Fernandez operating just ahead of them in a more advanced role. Cole Palmer starts on the right, Derry occupies the left flank, and Joao Pedro leads the line as the central striker.
Double injury boost for Chelsea
The team news brings further positive headlines for McFarlane and the Chelsea faithful. Club captain Reece James has been included in the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury, providing a timely boost to the defensive and leadership options. Additionally, Levi Colwill is among the substitutes following his return from a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained in August 2025. Both players’ availability adds significant depth and experience to the bench.
Forest rotate key players
Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, have opted to rest several important figures for the trip to west London. Elliot Anderson, Morgan Gibbs-White, Chris Wood, Nikola Milenkovic and Omari Hutchinson all begin the match on the bench, suggesting a more cautious or rotation-focused approach from the visitors.
Chelsea XI: Sanchez; Gusto, Chalobah, Tosin, Cucurella; Caicedo, Lavia; Palmer, Fernandez, Derry; Joao Pedro
With Derry handed a rare opportunity to shine on the left wing and key senior players returning from injury, McFarlane will be hoping this fresh-looking Chelsea side can deliver a strong performance and maximum points against a rotated Forest outfit. The inclusion of the exciting youngster adds an element of unpredictability and energy to the Blues’ attack, while the presence of James and Colwill on the bench offers valuable insurance and potential game-changing impact.
All eyes will now be on how the teenage debutant performs on one of English football’s biggest stages.