Chelsea conclude their 2025/26 Premier League campaign this afternoon with a trip to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland. While the season has been a rollercoaster for the Blues, a victory over the Black Cats could still see them sneak into the Europa League places, depending on other results.
With the pressure on for a strong send-off, interim head coach Calum McFarlane is expected to field a side capable of delivering both performance and result in what will be his final match in charge.
Football.london understands McFarlane has already made several key calls, including some surprise inclusions that could define the afternoon.
Predicted Chelsea XI (3-4-2-1)
Sanchez Fofana – Colwill – Hato Neto – James – Caicedo – Cucurella Palmer – Fernandez Joao Pedro
Robert Sanchez starts in goal as Chelsea’s undisputed No.1. The Spaniard has held the position throughout the campaign and is set to end it where he began it, though questions remain over long-term succession planning.
In defence, Wesley Fofana continues his strong form under McFarlane. The Frenchman has thrived in a back-three system, where his ball-carrying ability can be fully utilised. Alongside him, Levi Colwill is expected to return after being rested midweek, while Jorrel Hato — who produced a heroic goal-saving block against Tottenham — completes what looks like an extremely solid back three.
The wing-back roles see a major call on the right. With Malo Gusto struggling with a knock and unlikely to feature, Pedro Neto is set to start, offering directness and width. On the left, Marc Cucurella remains a mainstay — particularly effective and attack-minded in this three-at-the-back shape.
In midfield, the inclusion of captain Reece James is one of the most eye-catching decisions. Rested against Tottenham, the England international is poised to feature in a more central role, adding leadership, quality on the ball, and physicality to the engine room. He partners the indefatigable Moises Caicedo, who is set to make his 50th appearance of the season.
Further forward, Cole Palmer will be desperate to sign off the campaign with a statement performance after his notable omission from England’s World Cup squad. Partnering him in attacking midfield is Enzo Fernandez, who delivered a match-winning display in midweek and remains one of Chelsea’s most influential players, despite ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Leading the line is Joao Pedro. The Brazilian missed the Tottenham match with a knock but has recovered in time and is expected to start. Having enjoyed an excellent debut season, the forward will be motivated to add to his tally of 20+ goals and provide a fitting end to what has been a breakthrough year at Stamford Bridge.
This predicted line-up carries real attacking intent while maintaining the defensive structure McFarlane has favoured in recent weeks. The decisions to start both Reece James and Joao Pedro — two players who bring significant leadership and goal threat — signal McFarlane’s desire for a positive, high-energy finish to the season.
Whatever happens at the Stadium of Light, this afternoon marks the end of one chapter for Chelsea. The question now is whether this bold, attacking selection can deliver the result the Blues so desperately need.