Chelsea vs Liverpool tips and predictions: Enzo Maresca looks to burst Arne Slot’s bubble at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea state of play

It's been a season of mixed fortunes under the stewardship of ex-Leicester boss Enzo Maresca. 

Chelsea's recent Premier League form includes a 1-0 victory over Everton, a 2-2 draw against Ipswich and a 0-0 stalemate with Brentford. 

These results have kept them in contention for European qualification, although a Champions League spot is still not guaranteed despite recent hiccups from Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa. 

Maresca wants experienced additions to the squad this summer and it's not hard to see why. The Blues have flattered to deceive at times during this campaign. 

However, glory in the Europa Conference League could still be on the cards after a comfortable 4-1 semi-final first leg win over Swedish side Djurgardens on Thursday. 

Liverpool state of play 

​It's been a stellar season for Arne Slot's Liverpool. The Dutchman guided the Anfield heavyweights to their 20th league title, equalling Manchester United's record, with a commanding 5-1 victory over beleaguered Tottenham last week. 

The Reds have been the standout performers in the top flight this term and were unbeaten in 26 consecutive matches from September to April. 

Slot is only the fifth manager to win the Premier League in their debut season after Jose Mourinho (2004/05 with Chelsea), Carlo Ancelotti (2009/10 with Chelsea), Manuel Pellegrini (2013/14 with Man City) and Antonio Conte (2016/17 with Chelsea). 

Key talking point: Are Liverpool now on the beach? 

Liverpool guaranteed their Premier League title with four games remaining - only three sides have ever been confirmed winners with more matches left to play and Liverpool themselves hold the record of seven from the 2019/20 campaign. 

But it's been a gruelling campaign and Slot's stars could be forgiven for taking their foot off the gas following celebrations last week. 

FIRST’s top tip for Chelsea vs Liverpool

Mohamed Salah first goal scorer at 4/1 (BetMGM)

The title might already be in the bag, but you simply can’t ignore the evergreen Egypt international. 

The wing wizard has been the most important cog in Liverpool’s attack this term. Salah leads the Premier League rankings for both goals (28) and assists (18) in 2024-25.

Extra tips

Cole Palmer anytime goalscorer at 31/20 (BetMGM)

Palmer underwhelmed in Chelsea's crucial win over Everton last week and has looked low on confidence for several weeks. 

But the England international's natural ability isn't in doubt and he's due a goal. Palmer could fancy his chances against a Liverpool side who have little to play for. 

Moises Caicedo yellow card at 21/10 (Bet442)

The Ecuador international has been an ever present for the Blues this season - and he's also one of the most booked players in the league. 

The former Brighton man has 10 yellow cards to his name and could easily add to that collection against Liverpool. 

Team News

Conor Bradley looks set to be available after missing out against Tottenham with a knock. However, the 21-year-old could find it difficult to displace Trent Alexander-Arnold. 

Ibrahima Konate and skipper Virgil van Dijk are firmly established as first-choice centre-backs. Nevertheless, Jarell Quansah will be keen to get some minutes under his belt in the final few fixtures of the season. Joe Gomez isn't expected back until the last few weeks of the season at the earliest. 

Spanish striker Marc Guiu was injured on transfer deadline day in January, but is closing in on a return to first-team action.

Malo Gusto was forced off during Chelsea's victory over Fulham but made the bench against Djurgardens. Romeo Lavia is close to full fitness after recovering from a hamstring issue that has blighted his season.

Chelsea vs Liverpool predicted line-ups

Chelsea: Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; Jackson (4-2-3-1)

Liverpool: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Diaz (4-2-3-1)

Form guide (all competitions)

Chelsea: WLWDWDLWWW

Liverpool: WWWLLWLWWW

Odds correct at the time of writing.