The London derby between Chelsea and West Ham is set to ignite Gameweek 5 of the 2024/25 Premier League season. This clash at the London Stadium promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to secure vital points early in the campaign. As Chelsea travel across the capital to face West Ham, fans can expect a match filled with intensity, tactical battles, and individual brilliance.
Team Form and Recent Performances
West Ham’s Mixed Start
West Ham United have had a mixed start to their season. Under the guidance of Julen Lopetegui, the Hammers have shown resilience but have struggled to find consistency. They currently sit 14th in the Premier League table with four points from their opening four matches. Their recent 1-1 draw against Fulham, where Danny Ings scored a dramatic late equalizer, highlighted their fighting spirit. However, they have yet to secure a home win this season, having lost to Aston Villa and Manchester City in their previous home fixtures.
Chelsea’s Promising Start
Chelsea, on the other hand, have had a slightly better start under new manager Enzo Maresca. The Blues are currently 7th in the league with seven points from four matches. They come into this game on the back of a narrow 1-0 victory over Bournemouth, thanks to an 86th-minute winner from Christopher Nkunku. Chelsea have shown promise on the road, with back-to-back away wins against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Bournemouth.
Key Players and Injuries
West Ham’s Injury Concerns
West Ham will be sweating on the fitness of key players Emerson Palmieri and Niclas Fullkrug. Emerson, who has been a crucial part of their defense, is doubtful due to a thigh injury, while Fullkrug is struggling with an Achilles issue. If Emerson is unavailable, Aaron Cresswell or Aaron Wan-Bissaka could step in at left-back. Danny Ings, who scored the equalizer against Fulham, might push for a starting spot, but Jarrod Bowen is expected to lead the attack.
Chelsea’s Injury List
Chelsea have their own injury concerns, with right-backs Reece James and Malo Gusto sidelined. Axel Disasi is likely to continue filling in at right-back. The Blues will rely on the attacking prowess of Christopher Nkunku and the midfield creativity of Enzo Fernandez to break down West Ham’s defense.
Tactical Analysis
West Ham’s Defensive Setup
Julen Lopetegui’s West Ham are known for their organized defense and quick transitions. They often set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with a solid backline and two holding midfielders providing protection. The pace and creativity of players like Lucas Paqueta and Mohammed Kudus in the attacking midfield positions will be crucial in unlocking Chelsea’s defense. West Ham will look to exploit set-pieces and counter-attacks, areas where they have traditionally been strong.
Chelsea’s Possession Play
Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea, meanwhile, prefer a possession-based style of play. They typically line up in a 4-3-3 formation, with a focus on controlling the midfield and creating overloads in wide areas. The full-backs play a significant role in their attacking play, providing width and delivering crosses into the box. Chelsea’s midfield trio, likely to include Enzo Fernandez, Conor Gallagher, and Moises Caicedo, will aim to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the game.
Chelsea vs West Ham Head-to-Head Record
In their last five Premier League meetings, Chelsea have had the upper hand with three wins, while West Ham have managed one victory and one draw. The most recent encounter saw Chelsea thrash West Ham 5-0 at Stamford Bridge in May 2024. However, West Ham have been more competitive at home, securing a 3-1 victory in their last meeting at the London Stadium in August 2023.
Chelsea vs West Ham Predicted Lineups
West Ham United (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Alphonse Areola
- Defenders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Konstantinos Mavropanos, Max Kilman, Emerson Palmieri (or Aaron Cresswell)
- Midfielders: Edson Alvarez, Lucas Paqueta, Mohammed Kudus, Crysencio Summerville
- Forwards: Jarrod Bowen
Chelsea (4-3-3)
- Goalkeeper: Robert Sanchez
- Defenders: Axel Disasi, Thiago Silva, Levi Colwill, Ben Chilwell
- Midfielders: Enzo Fernandez, Conor Gallagher, Moises Caicedo
- Forwards: Raheem Sterling, Christopher Nkunku, Mykhailo Mudryk
Predictions
This London derby is expected to be a closely contested affair. West Ham’s home advantage and their ability to perform in big games could see them put up a strong fight. However, Chelsea’s recent form and their quality in attack might give them the edge. A narrow win for Chelsea seems likely, but a draw cannot be ruled out given West Ham’s resilience.
Prediction: West Ham 1-2 Chelsea
