Reigning champions Liverpool travel to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea in the standout fixture of the Premier League's seventh round. The Merseyside club is coming off two consecutive defeats and desperately needs a win to reclaim the top spot, currently held by Arsenal. The Blues, meanwhile, are winless in their last three league outings, having suffered losses to Manchester United and Brighton in their previous two matches. Liverpool's recent record at Stamford Bridge is also a concern, as they haven't secured a victory in their last four Premier League visits.
Arne Slot has made five changes to the squad that faced Galatasaray. Giorgi Mamardashvili makes his Premier League debut, stepping in for the injured Alisson Becker between the posts. Conor Bradley, Alexis Mac Allister, Mohamed Salah, and Alexander Isak all return to the starting XI. Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike are named among the substitutes, alongside Federico Chiesa and Jeremie Frimpong.
Enzo Maresca is grappling with a significant injury crisis, with key players such as Palmer, Adarabioyo, Delap, Colwill, Fofana, and Santos all sidelined. Trevoh Chalobah is also unavailable due to suspension. The Italian manager has made three alterations to his lineup. Josh Acheampong, João Pedro, and Reece James all start, with James expected to operate in a midfield role.