Chelsea Faces Liverpool with Five Injuries, Maresca Updates

Chelsea will face Premier League champions Liverpool at Stamford Bridge with four confirmed injury absentees: Marc Guiu, Aaron Anselmino, Wesley Fofana, and Omari Kellyman, while the availability of Christopher Nkunku and Robert Sanchez remains uncertain pending late fitness tests. Mykhailo Mudryk is still suspended following a provisional ban for a prohibited substance. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca acknowledged the significant gap between his side and Liverpool, attributing it to Liverpool's consistency and greater experience, but expressed optimism that Chelsea is heading in the right direction and can close the gap. Maresca also confirmed Chelsea will give Liverpool a guard of honor in recognition of their title win. Despite the title already being secured by Liverpool, both teams are expected to compete strongly, with Chelsea still vying for a Champions League place. Liverpool, meanwhile, have only one player definitely ruled out through injury for the encounter.