Blues Bounce Back in Style Against Nottingham Forest
Chelsea delivered one of their most confident performances of the season with a 3–0 victory over Nottingham Forest on Saturday, 18 October 2025, easing pressure on head coach Enzo Maresca and giving fans renewed optimism about the direction of the team.
The result marked Chelsea’s most complete away display this campaign, featuring goals from Josh Acheampong, Pedro Neto, and Reece James. The win lifted the Blues to 14 points from eight Premier League matches, pushing them closer to the European qualification places.
According to The Guardian, Maresca’s tactical adjustments at half-time proved decisive, allowing Chelsea to dominate possession and dictate tempo against a Forest side that struggled to regain control after the break.
Tactical Tweaks Deliver Results
Chelsea’s first-half possession was impressive but lacked penetration. That changed after the interval when Maresca pushed his full-backs higher and encouraged midfielders to play quicker vertical passes.
The move paid off immediately as 18-year-old defender Josh Acheampong opened the scoring with his first senior goal — a composed finish following a set-piece scramble. Pedro Neto doubled the lead soon after, before captain Reece James sealed the result with a well-timed volley in the 82nd minute.
> “It was a game about patience and control,” said Maresca post-match. “We stayed calm, waited for the right moment, and the players executed perfectly.”
The clean sheet also highlighted progress in Chelsea’s defensive organisation, something that had troubled them earlier in the season.
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Maresca Handed Touchline Ban but Maintains Influence
Despite the positivity, Maresca will be absent from the touchline for Chelsea’s next Premier League fixture following a one-match ban and an £8,000 fine from the Football Association for his over-celebration during the 2–1 win over Liverpool earlier this month.
The FA cited “inappropriate conduct” after the manager received a second yellow card during stoppage time.
Nevertheless, the team’s performance at the City Ground suggested that Chelsea’s preparation and leadership structure remain intact, even in his absence. Assistant coaches will oversee next weekend’s match, but the tactical plan and training schedule are already set by Maresca.
Cole Palmer Injury Extends Further
Injury concerns continue to shadow Chelsea’s progress. Star forward Cole Palmer will remain sidelined for at least six more weeks due to a recurring groin injury.
> “Unfortunately, he needs to be out probably six more weeks,” Maresca told reporters. “We’re just trying to protect Cole as much as we can. The most important thing is that he comes back 100 percent fit.”
Palmer’s absence comes at a busy point in the schedule, with key fixtures against Tottenham Hotspur, Wolves, and Barcelona ahead. His creativity and composure in the final third have been missed, but the emergence of younger players like Acheampong and steady form from Neto offer encouragement.
Chelsea Planning for January Market Activity
Behind the scenes, Chelsea’s recruitment team is already preparing for the January transfer window. Reports indicate the Blues are in pole position to sign Guela Doué, the talented 23-year-old right-back from Strasbourg, valued at around €30 million.
The club is also exploring the possibility of re-signing Diego Moreira, who left for just £1.7 million last year and has since impressed in Ligue 1 — his value now estimated near €20 million.
Both targets fit the club’s focus on young, high-potential players who can provide depth and long-term value, aligning with the recruitment strategy introduced under the current ownership.
International Call-Ups Highlight Squad Growth
Chelsea’s improving form has not gone unnoticed at the international level. Several players have received call-ups for the upcoming international break, including Pedro Neto, Malo Gusto, and Josh Acheampong.
Acheampong’s story, in particular, has drawn attention. Having risen through the academy ranks, the teenager’s recent debut and goal for the senior side underline the growing trust Maresca has in Chelsea’s youth system.
> “The young players are giving everything,” said club captain Reece James. “They’re hungry, they’re fearless, and they’re pushing everyone to be better.”
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