Chelsea fans have expressed their appreciation for Enzo Maresca’s decision to start Josh Acheampong in the upcoming match against Crystal Palace. The match, scheduled for Saturday, December 4 at Selhurst Park, will see Robert Sanchez in goal, with Malo Gusto, Acheampong, Levi Colwill, and Marc Cucurella forming the defense.
In midfield, Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, and Jadon Sancho will feature, while Nicolas Jackson will lead the attack as the sole striker.
Acheampong, an 18-year-old central defender, made his Chelsea debut last season and earned his first full start under Maresca in the UEFA Conference League against Astana on December 12. He recently signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until June 2029 and has made three appearances this season.
His inclusion in the starting lineup has been met with enthusiasm from fans, particularly in light of recent struggles from defenders Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Axel Disasi. One supporter praised Maresca’s choice, saying, “Acheampong over Tosin and Disasi might just be the best decision ever,” while another admired the manager’s courage in giving the young player a chance.
Other fans expressed excitement, with comments such as “Josh gets his start, LETS GO!” and “Finally, the manager showing bravery. I’d rather lose to an Acheampong mistake than a Disasi one.”
Despite the positive reaction, the upcoming match against Crystal Palace is expected to be a tough challenge.
Former Liverpool player Mark Lawrenson predicted a 1-1 draw, noting Chelsea’s recent struggles after a promising start to the season.
Currently, Chelsea sits in fourth place in the Premier League, 10 points behind leaders Liverpool, while Crystal Palace is in 15th place with 20 points.
Lawrenson warned that “things unravel quickly at Chelsea” if the team fails to regain their form.
