Sunderland vs Chelsea prediction: teams form analysis, possible lineups on May 24, 2026
English Premier League
In the 38th round of the English Premier League on May 24, 2026, Sunderland and Chelsea will face off. Both teams could qualify for European competitions with a win.
Sunderland vs Chelsea: Team News and Expert Analysis
The club from the "Stadium of Light" invited Le Bris as head coach in 2024. He promoted the team from the Championship, albeit through the playoffs. Moreover, in the Premier League, they consistently picked up points and performed well in the cup. Their momentum slowed only in the second half of spring when motivation waned. However, they managed to beat Everton in the previous round.
The capital giant finished fourth last season under Maresca, adding a Conference League triumph and, in the summer, a Club World Cup title. But Maresca was sacked at New Year's. His successor, Rosenior, spent a record short stint as manager—less than three months—crashing out of the League Cup and Champions League, and suffering several defeats in the Premier League. Only in the cup did they reach the final (already without him), where they narrowly but deservedly lost to Manchester City. Without a full-time head coach, their Premier League form did not improve. Against Tottenham, they scraped a 2-1 win as news broke of Xabi Alonso's contract signing.
The division newcomers score 1.08 goals per match but concede only slightly more—1.27 per game. The London stars' stats are not impressive either: they score 1.54 goals and concede 1.35 per match.
Head-to-Head: Sunderland vs Chelsea
After eight years, Sunderland claimed a 2-1 away victory in the capital.
The visitors are considered favorites but raise many questions. The neutral bet is "both teams to score" (odds – 1.65).
Sunderland vs Chelsea: Key Statistics and Trends
- Sunderland won for the first time in five matches
- 46% of Sunderland's matches end with both teams scoring, with an average total of 2.35 goals per game
- Chelsea have won two of their last five matches
- 62% of Chelsea's matches end with both teams scoring, with an average total of 2.89 goals per game
Sunderland vs Chelsea: Probable Starting Lineups
Sunderland play a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (probable lineup): Rufs - Mandava, Alderete, Mukiele, Geertruida - Sadiki, Xhaka - Talbi, Le Fée, Hume - Brobbey. Moore and Ballard are still recovering.
Chelsea play a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (probable lineup): Sanchez - Cucurella, Adarabioyo, Chalobah - Gusto, Caicedo, Lavia - Derry, Enzo Fernandez, Palmer - Joao Pedro. Gittens and Estevao will not be available.
Place your bets on the upcoming match and follow the team's performance in the English Premier League standings
