Chelsea Leaves Out Strikers Jackson Nkunku Ahead Premier League Move

Chelsea will face West Ham United in a London derby without forwards Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku, as both players are excluded from the squad amid transfer speculation. Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed that Jackson and Nkunku, despite being fit and available, are surplus to requirements following the signings of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, who have been prioritized as the club's center forwards. Jackson, under contract until 2033, has drawn interest from Premier League clubs, while Nkunku is reportedly in talks to return to RB Leipzig, his former club, with Chelsea seeking a permanent transfer. Other Chelsea players such as Ben Chilwell and Raheem Sterling are training separately as they await possible moves. West Ham suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Sunderland in their opening game, while Chelsea's 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace highlighted their need for a response after a disrupted preseason due to Club World Cup commitments. Both teams will look to improve their performances in this upcoming match, with West Ham potentially rotating their squad due to injuries and loan moves.