Alright, Blues. We’re nearly there. Wembley. FA Cup Final. Chelsea vs. Manchester City. It’s the kind of day that makes all the chaos of the season worth it. But before we get to the team sheet, there’s the usual pre-final headache: who’s fit, who’s not, and who’s going to be a late call. Let’s break down the latest injury situation and what the manager is likely working with.
The Big Fitness Question: Cole Palmer
Let’s start with the one everyone’s asking about. Cole Palmer has been in and out of training this week. He’s been spotted in full sessions at Cobham, moving well.
> What to expect: Palmer is likely to be in the squad, but don’t be shocked if he starts on the bench. If he does start, he’ll probably be the first sub off if things get tight. He’s a creative heartbeat, but the medical staff will be watching his minutes.
Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo: The Engine Room
The midfield duo has been a backbone of the team under the current manager. Enzo Fernandez has been managed carefully since March. Caicedo, on the other hand, is fully fit. No issues. He’s been a consistent performer in the run-in.
> What to expect: Enzo could start, but expect the manager to have Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall ready to step in if needed. Caicedo will be the one doing the dirty work, covering ground and breaking up play.
The Defensive Situation: Who Partners Colwill?
Levi Colwill is a certainty at centre-back. The question is who lines up next to him. Benoit Badiashile has been back in training but hasn’t played a full 90 in three weeks. Meanwhile, Trevoh Chalobah has been solid in his absence. The other option? Wesley Fofana, but his fitness record this season has been patchy at best.
> What to expect: Chalobah gets the nod. He’s been reliable, he knows the system, and he’s got the pace to deal with City’s counter-attacks. Badiashile will be on the bench as a tactical option if Chelsea need to go more defensive late on.
Full-Backs: James and Cucurella
Reece James is fit. That’s the headline. After a season of stop-start injuries, the captain has managed a run of consecutive starts. He’s looked sharp, and his crossing has been a key weapon. Marc Cucurella is also fully available, though he’s been carrying a minor ankle issue that’s been managed with strapping.
> What to expect: James starts at right-back, Cucurella on the left. If James tires, expect Malo Gusto to come on. Cucurella’s work rate is vital against City’s wide players.
Attack: Delap, Joao Pedro, and the Wingers
Liam Delap has been a surprise package of the season. He’s fully fit and has been training without restrictions. His physical presence will be key against City’s centre-backs. Joao Pedro is also available. He’ll likely start as the second striker or off the left.
On the wings, Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto are both fit. Garnacho has been electric in training this week, and Neto’s dribbling ability could be a game-changer late on. Estevao Willian is also in the squad but is more likely to be an impact sub.
> What to expect: Delap leads the line. Joao Pedro plays off him. Garnacho starts on the left, Neto on the right. Estevao comes on in the second half to run at tired legs.
The Goalkeeper Decision
Robert Sanchez has been a number one under the current manager, but Filip Jorgensen has been pushing hard. Sanchez has had a few shaky moments, but his distribution is better for the system. Jorgensen is the better shot-stopper. It’s a coin flip.
> What to expect: Sanchez starts. He’s the manager’s choice for now. Jorgensen will be on the bench, ready if things go wrong.
When to Worry and When to Relax
Here’s the honest truth: most of the squad is available. The only real doubt is Palmer’s fitness, and even that looks positive. If you’re refreshing your feed every hour for injury news, relax. The team is in good shape. The only thing that could change things is a late setback in the final training session.
When you should actually worry: If you see a report that Palmer has missed the final training session entirely. If he’s in the session, even if he’s not at full intensity, he’s playing.
When you should relax: If the club’s official pre-match press conference confirms everyone is available. The manager has been transparent about injuries.
What If You’re Following the Live Updates?
If you’re tracking the team news on our live match blog, here’s what to look for:
- Lineup release (1 hour before kickoff): Check the bench. If Palmer is on the bench, it’s a precaution. If he’s not in the squad, that’s a problem.
- Warm-up: Watch for players who look restricted. If a player is doing light jogging while others sprint, they’re carrying something.
- First 15 minutes: If the manager makes an early sub (before 30 minutes), it’s likely an injury issue, not a tactical one.
The Bottom Line
Chelsea go into this final with a near-full squad. That’s more than most teams can say after a long season. The key is how the manager manages the minutes of his key players, especially Palmer and Enzo. If they’re on it, Chelsea have the quality to beat City. If they’re not, the depth is there to cover.
For a full breakdown of how the match played out, check out our post-match analysis. And if you missed any of the build-up, our match coverage hub has everything you need.
Come on, Chelsea. Let’s bring that trophy home.