Chelsea travels to the North East on Saturday to build on a crucial win against Everton.
Enzo Maresca’s team ended a four-match winless streak last weekend. However, the manager’s comments after the match have taken the spotlight. The Blues are currently eight points off the top position and need a win to keep their title dreams alive.
The visitors have one of the league’s strongest defenses, having kept eight clean sheets this season. Their away performance has also been strong lately, with four shutouts in their last five away games. However, they face a challenging task at a venue where they have lost in their last three visits.
Chelsea team news
Enzo Maresca is set to make a notable tactical change. Captain Reece James is expected to move into midfield alongside the returning Moisés Caicedo, which may result in Enzo Fernández dropping to the bench. In defense, Malo Gusto will continue at right-back due to his impressive form, while Trevoh Chalobah is likely to start in the center.
In attack, Estêvão’s participation is uncertain due to a muscle injury that kept him out of the midweek cup match. Therefore, Pedro Neto will play a key role on the wing, having the most goal contributions of any Chelsea player this season. Cole Palmer will operate centrally, and João Pedro will lead the line.
Chelsea predicted lineup
Chelsea predicted XI: Sánchez; Gusto, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; James, Caicedo; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho; Pedro
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League match will be held at St. James’ Park on Saturday, 20 December 2025, with kick-off at 12:30 pm GMT.
How to watch Newcastle United vs Chelsea?
The match will be shown live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate, starting coverage at 11:30 am GMT.
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