Shock Lineups Revealed: 5 Key Changes In West Ham Vs. Chelsea F.C. Predicted XI For London Derby

The fierce London Derby is back on the calendar, and as of December 10, 2025, all eyes are on the crucial Premier League clash between West Ham United and Chelsea F.C. set for January 31, 2026. This fixture, often a battle of attrition and tactical wits, is already generating intense speculation regarding the starting elevens, especially given the recent injury crisis plaguing the Blues and the tactical consistency of the Hammers. The predicted lineups for this Stamford Bridge showdown suggest significant changes and potential debuts that could define the outcome of the match and the trajectory of both clubs' seasons.

Anticipation is high for the tactical battle between the two sides, with managerial decisions on formations and personnel expected to be the deciding factor. Based on the latest team news and injury reports, here is the most comprehensive look at the predicted starting lineups, key absences, and the tactical blueprints both clubs are expected to deploy for the upcoming 2026 fixture.

Match Preview & Key Details: West Ham vs. Chelsea F.C.

The upcoming clash is more than just three points; it's a battle for London bragging rights and vital positioning in the Premier League table. Both teams have endured periods of inconsistency, making this derby a pivotal moment for their respective campaigns.

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• Fixture: Chelsea F.C. vs. West Ham United
• Competition: Premier League (Matchday 23, approximately)
• Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
• Kick-off Time: 17:30 UTC / 12:30 PM ET (Subject to confirmation)
• Venue: Stamford Bridge, London, England
• Key Tactical Battle: Chelsea's midfield control versus West Ham's counter-attacking threat, primarily through Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paquetá.
• Managerial Focus: The Blues' manager will be under pressure to find a stable defensive unit, while the Hammers' boss will look to exploit space behind Chelsea's high defensive line.

The Hammers' Predicted XI: Solidity and Counter-Attack (3-4-1-2)

West Ham United is expected to maintain a shape that prioritizes defensive solidity while allowing their attacking talents to flourish on the break. The predicted 3-4-1-2 formation gives them width and a strong central core, perfect for a challenging away fixture.

West Ham Predicted Lineup (3-4-1-2 Formation)

The Hammers' selection is built on a blend of experienced internationals and high-energy performers. The defensive unit is set to feature a new look, while the midfield axis remains crucial for ball retrieval and distribution.

• Goalkeeper (GK): Hermansen
• Defenders (CB): Todibo, Kilman, Aguerd
• Midfielders (RWB, CM, CM, LWB): Wan-Bissaka, Ward-Prowse, Souček, Diouf
• Attacking Midfielder (CAM): Lucas Paquetá
• Forwards (ST): Jarrod Bowen, Niclas Füllkrug

Key Player & Tactical Focus: Paquetá and Bowen Synergy

The predicted inclusion of a three-man defence—likely featuring new defensive entities like Todibo and Kilman alongside Aguerd—aims to nullify Chelsea's central attacks. The midfield partnership of James Ward-Prowse and Tomáš Souček will be essential for controlling the tempo and utilizing Ward-Prowse's set-piece delivery. The most exciting aspect is the forward line: Lucas Paquetá operating behind the prolific Jarrod Bowen and Niclas Füllkrug. This trio provides pace, creativity, and a clinical edge, making them a significant threat in transition.

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West Ham Team News and Absences

The Hammers have a relatively stable squad, though they are not without their worries. Veteran goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski is confirmed to be out with a back injury, and young Oliver Scarles is also unavailable. The depth of the squad will be tested, but the core starting eleven remains strong.

The Blues' Predicted XI: Navigating the Injury Crisis (4-2-3-1)

Chelsea's manager faces a selection headache due to a growing injury list, forcing a reliance on tactical flexibility and the introduction of promising young talent. The expected formation is a 4-2-3-1, which offers structure in the final third and allows the full-backs to push high.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1 Formation)

The Blues’ lineup is characterized by necessity, with several key players missing. This presents an opportunity for fringe players and recent signings to step up in a crucial derby environment.

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• Goalkeeper (GK): Robert Sánchez
• Defenders (RB, CB, CB, LB): Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin, Marc Cucurella
• Midfielders (CM, CM): Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández
• Attacking Midfielders (RW, CAM, LW): Estevao, Carney Chukwuemeka, Gabriel Neto
• Forward (ST): João Pedro

Key Player & Tactical Focus: Midfield Control and Estevao's Chance

The central midfield partnership of Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández remains the engine room for the Blues, tasked with dictating play and shielding the defence. Their performance will be crucial to overcoming the West Ham press. In attack, the absence of key players opens the door for a potential debut or significant start for Estevao, who is tipped to replace the injured Cole Palmer. Estevao’s pace and trickery on the wing could provide the creative spark Chelsea desperately needs. João Pedro is expected to lead the line, with support from Gabriel Neto and Carney Chukwuemeka in the attacking midfield roles.

Chelsea Team News and Absences

The injury list at Stamford Bridge is extensive and significantly impacts the squad depth. Key defender Levi Colwill is a long-term absentee following knee surgery. Winger Mykhailo Mudryk also remains sidelined. Most critically for this fixture, star man Cole Palmer suffered an injury in a previous warm-up and is a major doubt, leading to the predicted inclusion of Estevao. Furthermore, Liam Delap is out with a shoulder injury. These absences will force a reshuffle, testing the tactical acumen of the manager.

5 Key Lineup Decisions That Will Define the Derby

The predicted XIs highlight five critical selection choices that could swing the momentum of the London Derby:

1. The Estevao Factor: Will the young Brazilian Estevao handle the pressure of a derby debut in place of the influential Cole Palmer? His performance could be a game-changer for Chelsea.
2. West Ham's Back Three: The decision to field a 3-4-1-2 with Todibo and Kilman in a back three is a bold defensive statement, aiming for stability against Chelsea’s quick forwards.
3. The Central Striker Duel: The choice of João Pedro over other options for Chelsea, up against the goal-scoring threat of Niclas Füllkrug for West Ham, sets up a fascinating battle of number nines.
4. Caicedo and Enzo's Workload: With limited cover and a strong West Ham midfield (Ward-Prowse/Souček), the performance and fitness of Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández will be crucial to Chelsea's control.
5. Full-Back Battle: The contest between West Ham's wing-backs (Wan-Bissaka and Diouf) and Chelsea's full-backs (Gusto and Cucurella) will determine which team controls the wide areas and provides the best service to the strikers.

The January 31, 2026, London Derby promises a high-stakes encounter. The predicted lineups reflect a Chelsea side struggling with injuries but brimming with youthful potential, facing a West Ham team built on tactical discipline and a formidable strike partnership. All signs point to a tactical chess match where the smallest change in personnel or formation could lead to a decisive victory.