Despite winning the 2023 Copa Libertadores, Fluminense are not currently Brazil’s top team — they finished just four points above the relegation zone last season and now sit sixth in the 2025 Campeonato Brasileiro.
Still, under coach Renato Gaucho, who recently reached his 100th career win with the club, they are just two victories away from being crowned world champions.
Chelsea will be without Liam Delap and Levi Colwill, both suspended due to yellow card accumulation. New signing Joao Pedro, who made his debut recently, is likely to replace Delap up front, while Tosin Adarabioyo is expected to fill in for Colwill in defense.
Reece James sustained an injury during the warm-up and remains doubtful alongside Romeo Lavia.
Moises Caicedo will return to the starting lineup after serving a one-match suspension, while Jamie Gittens remains unavailable due to registration issues.
For Fluminense, Juan Pablo Freytes and Martinelli are both suspended. Martinelli’s absence could pave the way for Hercules to start. If coach Gaucho sticks with a back-three formation, the injured-nosed Thiago Silva will likely still start, flanked by Ignacio and potentially Fuentes.
Up front, the reliable duo of German Cano and Jhon Arias will remain Fluminense’s main attacking weapons. Arias has been particularly impressive, leading his team in shots, chances created, and successful dribbles.
Predicted Starting Lineups:
Fluminense (3-5-2):
Fabio; Ignacio, Silva, Fuentes; Xavier, Hercules, Bernal, Nonato, Rene; Arias, Cano
Chelsea (4-2-3-1):
Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Chalobah, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Neto, Palmer, Nkunku; Pedro
