The build-up to this weekend’s Premier League action culminates with a highly anticipated London derby on Sunday, as Chelsea host Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca, are currently ahead of Arsenal in the league by goal difference, sitting just outside the top four. They have demonstrated their attacking strength in midweek with a resounding 8-0 victory over Armenian side FC Noah in the Conference League, marking their third consecutive win in the competition.

Chelsea’s impressive European form contrasts with their mixed performances in the Premier League, where they are in fourth place, with 18 points from 10 matches. Their unbeaten home streak stretches over eight games, but they have yet to secure a clean sheet in the league at Stamford Bridge this season. Arsenal, meanwhile, has struggled in attack recently, suffering two consecutive 1-0 defeats in both the Premier League and Champions League, with a lack of offensive spark in those matches.

Arsenal’s loss to Inter Milan in midweek highlighted their recent woes. Despite attempting 46 crosses in the game, they were unable to find the net, marking their first European defeat of the season. The Gunners are also dealing with internal distractions, including the unexpected resignation of sporting director Edu, adding to the pressure on manager Mikel Arteta as his side languishes in fifth place in the Premier League, seven points behind leaders Liverpool.

Though Arsenal has not lost three consecutive Premier League away games since the 1994-95 season, they are still a formidable force in London derbies, having won their last six, including a 5-0 demolition of Chelsea last season. Arteta’s men will hope to regain their rhythm, especially with key players such as Martin Ødegaard returning to fitness after injury.

Chelsea, however, will be without Cole Palmer for this match due to an injury sustained in the previous weekend’s match against Manchester United. The winger, who has contributed 12 goal involvements this season, will be missed, but the Blues can call on other in-form players like Christopher Nkunku and Joao Félix. Meanwhile, Arsenal will be sweating over the fitness of Declan Rice, who is doubtful due to a foot injury, while Kai Havertz also faces a late fitness test after a clash with Inter’s Yann Bisseck.

**Predicted lineups**:

**Chelsea** (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, James; Caicedo, Lavia; Madueke, Nkunku (or Palmer), Neto; Jackson

**Arsenal** (4-3-3): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Ødegaard, Jorginho, Partey; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli

This thrilling London derby promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams eager to overcome recent struggles and prove themselves on the big stage. Chelsea’s formidable home record and Arsenal’s dominance in capital clashes set the stage for an exciting battle at Stamford Bridge.