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Chelsea Shake-Up: Maresca Rethinks Lineup as Leeds United Visit

3 December 2025

Chelsea Shake-Up: Maresca Rethinks Lineup as Leeds United Visit
Chelsea's lineup changes ahead of Leeds clash.

Lineups for Chelsea ahead of Leeds United

Enzo Maresca, Chelsea's boss, shuffled his starting lineup ahead of tonight's visit from Leeds United in the 14th round of the Premier League.

Most changes were in defense, as Maresca left Malo Gusto and Reece James on the bench, while Chalobah, Adarabioyo and Badiashile started.

Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer and Alejandro Garnacho also sat on the bench, as Estevao and Jaden Gittens supported Joao Pedro and Liam Delap up front.

Leeds' German coach Daniel Farke started with a lineup that included Lucas Perry in goal, a back line of Bejul, Rodon and Stroyk, midfielders Gudmundsson, Stach, Ambado, Tanaka and Bogel, and attackers Calvert-Lewin and Nmecha.

Chelsea arrive on 24 points in third, while Leeds United seek to climb out of the danger zone, sitting 18th with 11 points.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What changes did Chelsea make to the starting XI?

Maresca benched Malo Gusto and Reece James and started Chalobah, Adarabioyo and Badiashile in defense, with other changes in attack and midfield.

Who started for Chelsea in goal and defense?

Goalkeeper was Robert Sanchez; the defense featured Chalobah, Adarabioyo, Badiashile and Kukorella (as listed in the lineup details).

What are Chelsea and Leeds' standings before the match?

Chelsea sit third with 24 points, while Leeds United are 18th with 11 points.