Chelsea is gearing up for a crucial Europa Conference League clash against Panathinaikos this Thursday evening in Greece. The match comes as the Blues face off against a historically significant club that has seen better days.
Currently sitting in 6th place in the Greek Super League after eight matches, Panathinaikos is struggling to recapture their former glory. With a record of three wins, three draws, and two losses this season, they have yet to find their rhythm.
Despite their recent challenges, Panathinaikos remains a formidable presence, playing in a stadium that can hold nearly 70,000 fans. The club boasts an impressive history, having clinched the Greek league title 20 times, although their last championship came in the 2009-10 season, marking a notable decline since.
Can Chelsea Secure the Win?
While these types of fixtures can be unpredictable, Chelsea is expected to have the upper hand. Head coach Enzo Maresca is likely to field his ‘second string’ squad, which has been effective in previous matches. One player poised for a starting role is Enzo Fernandez, who has recently become a key figure in this lineup.
Fernandez appears to have fallen behind Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia in the pecking order, especially after not starting in Chelsea’s pivotal match against Liverpool last Sunday. This absence suggests he may now be seen as a reliable option within the ‘second string’ group.
Given this context, it seems likely that Enzo Fernandez will take the field in midfield against Panathinaikos, ready to contribute to Chelsea’s quest for victory in the Europa Conference League.