Chelsea vs Bournemouth confirmed line-ups: Joao Pedro and Caicedo return to starting XI for the Blues

Chelsea host Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge in matchday six of the Premier League, featuring two sides eager to kick-start their campaigns following the international break. Bournemouth, under the guidance of Marco Rose, are still searching for their first league victory of the season and sit 17th in the table with three points following three draws and two defeats (goal difference 6-8).

An intriguing aspect of this head-to-head record is that the last three Premier League encounters between the two teams have ended level. Last December they played out a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge, following a 0-0 stalemate at the Vitality Stadium in December 2025. In January 2025, the London clash also finished 2-2. Chelsea's last win in the fixture dates back to September 2024, when they secured a 1-0 away victory.

For the hosts, England youth international Jamie Gittens is ruled out with an ankle injury. Xabi Alonso makes three changes today, with Joao Pedro replacing Danny Welbeck to lead the Chelsea attack. Operating behind him are the fit-again Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers. Moises Caicedo makes his return to the midfield in place of Valentin Barco, while Josh Acheampong gets the nod in defence over Wesley Fofana.

Bournemouth are depleted by injuries to Alex Scott, Eli Junior Kroupi, Justin Kluivert, and Julian Araujo. The Cherries' frontline will be spearheaded by Brazilian forward Evanilson, supported in attack by compatriot Rayan, Marcus Tavernier, and David Brooks.