A Champions League classic returns to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night as Chelsea host Barcelona in a pivotal league stage encounter.
Both European heavyweights are locked on seven points after four matches, making this a crucial battle for position. Enzo Maresca’s side arrive in high confidence after a professional league win. Similarly, Hansi Flick’s Barcelona are in ominous form, fresh from thrashing Athletic Club 4-0 at the weekend.
Chelsea vs Barcelona – Match Preview and Team News
- Date: Tuesday, 25 November 2025
- Kick-off: 8:00 pm GMT
- Venue: Stamford Bridge, London
- Referee: Slavko Vinčić
- VAR: Christian Dingert
- Last Meeting: Barcelona 1-2 Chelsea, 23 JUL 2019, Club Friendly
Team News
Chelsea
Enzo Maresca is expected to be without talisman Cole Palmer, who remains sidelined with a toe injury. Furthermore, long-term absentee Levi Colwill is also unavailable. However, the Blues have been boosted by the form of teenage sensation Estêvão Willian. In addition, captain Reece James is pushing for a start after building his fitness in recent weeks.
Barcelona
Hansi Flick brings a star-studded attack to London. However, he has several injury concerns. Gavi and Pedri are ruled out with knee and hamstring injuries respectively, while goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is also absent. Therefore, 17-year-old Pau Cubarsí could partner Eric García in central defence. Frenkie de Jong is pushing for a recall to anchor the midfield.
Form Guide
Chelsea
Chelsea have steadied the ship after a mixed start to their European campaign. A frustrating 2-2 draw with Qarabağ in their last Champions League outing was a setback. Despite this, their domestic form is strong. The 2-0 win at Burnley moved them up to second in the Premier League. Significantly, Stamford Bridge has been a fortress in Europe recently; the Blues are unbeaten in their last 16 home group/league stage matches.
Barcelona
Barcelona have been the entertainers of the competition. Indeed, their matches average 4.8 goals per game, the highest in the tournament. After an opening loss to Monaco, they have found their rhythm. However, they have a poor record in West London, having won just once in their last eight visits to Stamford Bridge.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea predicted XI: Sanchez; James, Adarabioyo, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Pedro, Garnacho; Delap
Barcelona predicted XI: J. Garcia; Kounde, E. Garcia, Cubarsi, Balde; Casado, De Jong; Yamal, Lopez, Torres; Lewandowski
How to watch Chelsea vs Barcelona?
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. Coverage starts at 7:00 pm GMT.
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