Syed Talib
Updated on: October 16, 2024 8:35 am GMT
Chelsea is set to kick off its UEFA Conference League campaign on October 3, 2024, with a match against Belgian club Gent at Stamford Bridge. The Blues are strong favorites to win this tournament, also referred to as UEFA’s third-tier competition. This marks Chelsea’s return to European football, having not participated in any European tournaments last season.
Manager’s Positive Outlook
Head coach Enzo Maresca expressed excitement about the team’s chances in the Conference League. He stated, “We are aware we could become the first team in Europe to add a Conference League title to our previous Champions League and Europa League successes. But we are happy and excited about tomorrow’s game.”
Injury Updates and Squad Changes
Currently, the only player ruled out for the match is Reece James, who is sidelined due to injury. This gives Maresca plenty of options as he navigates multiple competitions with a 29-player senior squad after a busy summer transfer window. Recently, Maresca has shown a willingness to rotate players significantly, making 10 changes against Brighton and 11 against Barrow.
Several players, including Cole Palmer, Romeo Lavia, Wesley Fofana, and Ben Chilwell, have been left out of the Conference League squad. This opens the door for opportunities for others, including Ukrainian forward Mykhailo Mudryk.
Potential Impact Players
Despite Palmer’s recent success, including scoring four goals against Brighton, Maresca emphasized a team-oriented approach. “It is not about reliance on Palmer. We have already played some games without him,” he noted. Maresca believes other players are ready to step up. “For sure, for us or any team in the world, Cole is an extra, but we also need to protect some players,” he added.
Mudryk’s performance has been under scrutiny, but Maresca is optimistic. “Misha did very well against Barrow. When you come on, like he did the other day, it is never easy, but I think he did okay.” He further remarked on the potential for players not currently in the Premier League lineup: “For Misha, for Christo, for all the players not starting in the Premier League, that does not mean they are not going to start the next game.”
Expectations for the Match
As Chelsea prepares for this matchup, they will look to make a strong statement in the Conference League. The squad’s depth allows for strategic rotations, and Maresca appears focused on achieving success across all competitions.
Looking Ahead
Filip Jorgensen is anticipated to start in goal for Chelsea, benefiting from his solid performances in cup matches thus far. There is also hope to see Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall return to the matchday squad as the team gears up for what promises to be an exciting European campaign.
- Date: October 3, 2024
- Kick-off: 20:00 UK Time
- Opponent: Gent
- Location: Stamford Bridge, London
The Blues are committed to making their mark in the UEFA Conference League this season, and fans eagerly await how the team will perform at home against Gent. Chelsea hopes to set a strong tone for their group phase campaign. With a mix of established stars and emerging talents, the match is sure to be thrilling.
As night falls, everyone will be watching Chelsea. They want to gain strength and compete for another European title. If they do well, it could be a big leap for the club on its way back to the top of European football.
