Mansion Sports - The third match week of the 2025/26 Premier League will feature a captivating London derby between Chelsea and Fulham at Stamford Bridge. The clash is scheduled for Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. local time. 

Beyond the city rivalry, this fixture represents an important opportunity for Chelsea to push toward the top of the table.

Chelsea Eyeing the Top of the Table

Chelsea have a strong chance of temporarily climbing to the Premier League summit if they overcome Fulham. 

Although their stay at the top may be brief depending on other results, the prospect remains a major source of motivation for Enzo Maresca’s squad.

Confidence within the camp has risen significantly following their emphatic 5-1 victory over West Ham United last weekend. 

Five different players—Joao Pedro, Pedro Neto, Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and Trevoh Chalobah—found the scoresheet, a reflection of Chelsea’s growing balance and Maresca’s tactical framework beginning to take shape.

Nevertheless, the absence of Cole Palmer due to a groin injury casts some uncertainty over the attacking lineup. 

Should Palmer be unavailable, teenage sensation Estevao is expected to step in again after delivering an impressive performance in the previous match.

Fulham Still Searching for Their First Win

Fulham, meanwhile, are yet to record a victory in the Premier League this season. From their opening two fixtures, they collected only two points following draws against Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester United.

However, their 2-0 triumph over Bristol City in the Carabao Cup may serve as a much-needed morale boost for Marco Silva’s men.

In terms of squad availability, Fulham face injury concerns of their own. Left-back Antonee Robinson is sidelined with a knee injury, while Emile Smith Rowe could be handed a starting role after a promising display against Manchester United.

Predicted Lineups for Chelsea vs Fulham 2025

Chelsea (4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: Robert Sanchez
• Defenders: Marc Cucurella, Tosin Adarabioyo, Trevoh Chalobah, Reece James
• Defensive Midfielders: Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo
• Attacking Midfielders: Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Estevao Willian
• Forward: Joao Pedro
• Manager: Enzo Maresca

Team News:

• Levi Colwill (injured)
• Romeo Lavia (injured)
• Benoit Badiashile (injured)
• Tosin Adarabioyo (doubtful)

Fulham (4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: Bernd Leno
• Defenders: Timothy Castagne, Calvin Bassey, Joachim Andersen, Kenny Tete
• Defensive Midfielders: Sasa Lukic, Sander Berge
• Attacking Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Harry King, Ryan Sessegnon
• Forward: Rodrigo Muniz

Manager: Marco Silva

Team News:

• Antonee Robinson (injured)

A Derby Worth Watching

Chelsea’s home fixture against Fulham at Stamford Bridge promises to be one of the standout encounters of the weekend. 

The Blues enter with momentum on their side, while Fulham remain determined to secure their first league victory of the campaign.

With the predicted lineups already taking shape, the spotlight will be on whether Chelsea can maintain their positive trajectory or if Fulham can spring a surprise and trouble their city rivals.