Chelsea Plans Lineup Changes Facing Benfica in Champions League

Chelsea faces Benfica in a pivotal Champions League match amid a challenging period marked by injuries, suspensions, and inconsistent form. Head coach Enzo Maresca has included Moises Caicedo in the starting lineup despite the midfielder carrying a knock from the recent 3-1 loss to Brighton, while Joao Pedro drops to the bench and no central striker is selected for the Blues. The team is also coping with disciplinary setbacks, including Trevoh Chalobah's recent red card in the Premier League, though he remains eligible and likely to play against Benfica. Chelsea's defense is expected to feature Malo Gusto and Benoît Badiashile, with Marc Cucurella maintaining his position at left-back. The match gains additional intrigue with the return of José Mourinho to Stamford Bridge as Benfica's manager, adding pressure on Maresca to halt Chelsea's poor run of results. Despite setbacks, the club hierarchy continues to back Maresca, who aims to restore confidence and stability in the squad ahead of this significant fixture.