Chelsea return to Stamford Bridge needing a response after a difficult few weeks. Their promising start under Xabi Alonso has quickly lost momentum, while Bournemouth arrive in London still searching for their first Premier League victory under Marco Rose.

Chelsea need to solve their defensive problems

Chelsea opened the season with consecutive wins, but they have collected only one point from their last three league matches. The worst performance came before the international break, when Brentford comfortably beat them 3–0.

Alonso has made several tactical changes since taking charge, but his players are still adjusting to the new system. Chelsea have looked particularly vulnerable when losing possession, with opponents finding too much space behind their midfield.

The Blues have conceded 12 goals in five Premier League matches, the worst defensive record in the division. Individual mistakes have contributed to that total, but Chelsea have also struggled to control matches once the opposition begins to apply pressure.

Their attacking performances have been more encouraging. João Pedro and Morgan Rogers have both contributed in the final third, while Chelsea have created enough chances to suggest that goals should not become a major problem.

Important players could return

The international break came at a useful time for Alonso. Cole Palmer, Reece James and Moisés Caicedo are all pushing to return, and their availability would give Chelsea more control in possession.

Palmer remains one of the team’s most important attacking players, while Caicedo provides the protection Chelsea have often lacked in midfield. James would also add experience and quality on the right side if he is ready to start.

João Pedro’s fitness remains a concern, but Chelsea still have enough attacking options to cause Bournemouth problems.

Bournemouth have been competitive without winning

Bournemouth are yet to win a Premier League match under Marco Rose, but they have not been completely outplayed during their difficult start.

Several of their matches have been close, with the Cherries showing that they can remain competitive even when they do not control possession. Marcus Tavernier and Bournemouth’s wide players offer a threat on the counterattack, particularly against a Chelsea defence that has regularly left space behind.

The visitors are also missing important players. Alex Scott, Justin Kluivert and Eli Junior Kroupi are unavailable, reducing Rose’s options in midfield and attack.

Those absences could become a bigger problem as the game progresses. Bournemouth may be able to frustrate Chelsea early, but maintaining that level for the full match at Stamford Bridge will be difficult.

Chelsea should have enough at home

Chelsea’s defensive record makes it difficult to expect a comfortable afternoon. Bournemouth should have opportunities, especially if the hosts continue to lose the ball in dangerous areas.

The difference could come at the other end. Chelsea possess greater attacking depth and may have several important players back in the team. They have also had the international break to work on the problems exposed during the defeat against Brentford.

Bournemouth have drawn several matches and are capable of keeping this competitive, but their injury problems and lack of victories are difficult to ignore. If Chelsea improve defensively and take their chances, they should end their winless run.

Verdict

Chelsea cannot be trusted to keep a clean sheet after conceding 12 goals in five league matches, but this looks like a good opportunity for Alonso’s team to respond.

The possible returns of Palmer, James and Caicedo would strengthen the hosts, while Bournemouth travel to Stamford Bridge with several important players missing. Chelsea should create enough chances to take all three points.

Tip

Chelsea to win