Chelsea travel to face FC Copenhagen in the first knockout stage of the Europa Conference League this evening, looking to hold a lead ahead of the second leg at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues ended the group phase at the top of the table, winning all six matches, being the only side to walk away with a 100% record – conceding just five goals in the process.
As for their opponents, the Danish outfit finished 18th, defeating FC Heidenheim in the play-off, securing a meeting with Enzo Maresca’s side for a place in the quarter-finals.
The Italian will likely have numerous selection dilemmas ahead of the clash, especially after the updated squad list, which has seen Cole Palmer added after being left out of the group phase.
He’s failed to register a goal or assist in any of his last seven matches across all competitions, potentially needing to leave one player out of the side if the Englishman is to return to his best form.
Christopher Nkunku’s stats in the UECL in 2024/25
French striker Christopher Nkunku has found Premier League minutes hard to come by in recent months, with the majority of his first-team action coming in Europe.
The 27-year-old has netted five goals in five starts during the league phase of the competition, but could find himself on the bench for tonight’s clash amid his recent form.
The injury to Nicolas Jackson has given him a chance to shine under Maresca, but he has failed to take advantage of the situation, registering just one goal in the league since the start of September.
He’s also featured out on the left-hand side, with Pedro Neto filling the void at the top end of the pitch with his pace and direct running – subsequently leaving Nkunku struggling in his unnatural role.
As a result, Maresca must start one other attacking player tonight to aid Palmer in his attempts to recapture his early season, whilst giving the talent the opportunity to thrive once more.
The Chelsea player who can revive Palmer against Copenhagen
The Europa Conference League has allowed fringe players and youngsters to gain valuable minutes this campaign as they aim to force themselves into the Blues’ first-team picture.
Winger Tyrique George has done just that over recent months, receiving increased minutes under Maresca as a result of his showings either off the bench or from the start.
The 19-year-old has made 13 appearances in 2024/25 to date, with seven of which coming in Europe – leading to three substitute appearances in the Premier League, edging ever closer to a start in the process.
He’s failed to score as of yet, but George has notched three assists, with two coming against Morecambe and one in the recent win over Southampton – providing Palmer with the opportunities to end his unusual drought.
George, who’s previously been labelled a “ridiculous” talent by creator Felix Johnston, has previously showcased his talents as seen by the figures he’s produced in Europe to date, with many of them demonstrating his ability to create frequent chances in the final third.
In the group stage alone, he created an average of 2.5 chances per 90, whilst also completing 2.2 successful dribbles, having that forward-thinking mindset to offer the likes of Palmer a route to recapturing his deadly form.
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Tyrique George’s stats for Chelsea in the Conference League (2024/25) |
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Statistics (per 90) |
Tally |
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Games played |
5 |
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Minutes played |
287 |
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Shots taken |
3.2 |
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Pass accuracy |
88% |
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Chances created |
2.5 |
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Successful dribbles |
2.2 |
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Dribble success |
59% |
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Stats via FotMob |
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Given the figures produced, coupled with Nkunku’s recent lack of goalscoring form, it’s pivotal that Maresca opts for the academy graduate over the Frenchman – with George potentially holding the keys to a first-leg victory.
The Blues will be looking to put one foot into the quarterfinals tonight, edging one step closer to allowing Maresca to claim his first title during his tenure at the Bridge.