Chelsea predicted XI vs Wrexham– Chelsea could hand Romeo Lavia his first start of 2026 when they travel to face Championship side Wrexham in a highly anticipated FA Cup fifth-round tie on Saturday evening. The Blues will be looking to continue their strong domestic form as they aim to progress in the tournament.
Lavia, who has been sidelined for almost four months with a quad injury suffered in November, returned to action as a substitute in matches against Arsenal and Aston Villa without any setbacks. Manager Liam Rosenior confirmed at his pre-match press conference that the midfielder is ready to start.
“Romeo Lavia is doing very well and he’s ready to go from the start,” Rosenior said. “I’m delighted for him. He will definitely play a part tomorrow, and his attributes will help us for the rest of the season.”
Chelsea will still be without Estevao, Willian, and Jamie Gittens, who are recovering from hamstring injuries. Both players are expected to return to training next week, but this match comes too soon for them to feature.
Liam Delap could lead the line in place of the rested Joao Pedro, who is being preserved ahead of midweek Champions League action against Paris Saint-Germain. Rosenior emphasized that opportunities will come for all players, especially in cup matches.
Pedro Neto is back from suspension and will strengthen Chelsea’s wing options, while Enzo Fernandez is among the few first-choice players likely to start at the Racecourse Ground.
Predicted Chelsea XI: Jorgensen; Gusto, Acheampong, Sarr, Hato; Lavia, Santos; Neto, Enzo Fernandez, Garnacho; Delap
Injured: Colwill, Gittens, Estevao
Time and Date: 5.45pm GMT, Saturday, March 7, 2026
Venue: Racecourse Ground
How to Watch: BBC One
Chelsea manager Rosenior is expected to rotate his squad to manage player fitness while maintaining competitiveness. With key players returning from injury and others being rested for European fixtures, this tie presents an opportunity for fringe players to impress.
Wrexham, competing in the Championship, will hope to leverage home advantage and cause an upset. The match represents a classic FA Cup test for Chelsea, combining the pressures of knockout football with the need to balance squad rotation.
The Blues’ lineup shows a blend of youth and experience, with Lavia’s midfield creativity central to their approach. Neto and Garnacho provide width and pace, while Delap’s physical presence up front could test the Wrexham defense.
Chelsea’s injury situation remains a concern, but Rosenior’s tactical flexibility allows him to adjust formations depending on match circumstances. Fans will watch closely to see how returning players like Lavia integrate into the first XI.
This tie also offers a glimpse into the depth of Chelsea’s squad. Young players given minutes in the FA Cup could earn more significant roles if they perform well, particularly with a congested fixture schedule looming.
As kick-off approaches, all eyes will be on the Racecourse Ground to see if Chelsea can assert dominance despite missing several first-choice stars.
Wrexham, meanwhile, will look to capitalize on any lapses and push for a memorable cup run.
The FA Cup fifth round continues to be a stage where surprises happen, and Chelsea’s mixture of experience and youth could either cement their authority or leave them vulnerable to an upset.
Read also: Chelsea goalkeeper decision: Who will be Rosenior’s No.1 next season?
