The Stage is Set: Why This Derby Matters
Arsenal travels to Stamford Bridge this Sunday, November 30, 2025, for a monumental clash against London rivals Chelsea. This isn’t just a local derby; it’s a genuine top-of-the-table showdown. As the current Premier League leaders, the Gunners sit just six points ahead of the Blues.
The stakes could not be higher: A victory for Mikel Arteta’s side would extend their lead to a significant nine points, creating a considerable gap at the summit. Conversely, if Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea secure all three points, they will close the distance to just three points, reigniting a thrilling title race. This crucial fixture promises to be a dramatic afternoon of football as we deliver our full Chelsea vs Arsenal Preview.
Recent Form: European Momentum for Both Sides
Both London clubs come into this fixture on the back of impressive European victories. Arsenal demonstrated their title credentials with a superb 3-1 win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League, securing five wins from five in the group stage. Goals from Jurrien Timber, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Martinelli sealed the win.
Chelsea were equally dominant, securing an important 3-0 triumph against Barcelona, featuring goals from Estêvão and Liam Delap, alongside a Jules Kounde own goal. Both teams are flying high, setting the stage for an intense Premier League battle.
Chelsea Team News & Predicted Lineup
Manager Enzo Maresca receives a major boost with the return of star player Cole Palmer, who has been sidelined since September. While Palmer is reportedly ready, he is likely to start on the bench. Dario Essugo also returns to the matchday squad following a thigh operation but is expected to be a substitute.
However, the Blues will be without key defensive and midfield options, as Levi Colwill and Romeo Lavia remain absent due to fitness issues. Furthermore, former Arsenal target Mykhaylo Mudryk is unavailable due to a provisional doping suspension.
Predicted Chelsea Lineup (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; James, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Estevao, Pedro, Neto; Delap.
Arsenal Team News & Predicted Lineup
Mikel Arteta faces a fresh injury concern after Leandro Trossard was forced off in the victory against Bayern Munich. While he has a chance to be fit, Gabriel Martinelli is on standby to take his place in the starting XI.
Arteta also has a decision to make in defense, where Cristhian Mosquera may drop out after stepping in for Piero Hincapié in the Champions League to offer him a rest. Additionally, both Viktor Gyökeres and Gabriel Jesus have traveled with the squad but face late fitness tests to determine their inclusion.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Hincapie, Calafiori; Eze, Zubimendi, Rice, Saka, Merino, Martinelli.
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