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Mourinho Returns to Stamford Bridge as Benfica Visit Struggling Chelsea

Chelsea approach the tie under scrutiny from recent red cards and injuries, with Enzo Maresca urging calm before José Mourinho's return.

Overview

  • Newly appointed Benfica manager José Mourinho arrives with two wins and a draw from his first three matches in charge.
  • Chelsea have lost three of their past four games, including their Champions League opener to Bayern Munich, with Maresca stressing the impact of recent sendings-off.
  • Playmaker Cole Palmer is ruled out of the next three matches with a groin issue, a development Mourinho acknowledged while insisting Chelsea still have ample quality.
  • Moisés Caicedo, João Pedro and Andrey Santos face late fitness assessments after picking up knocks in the Brighton defeat.
  • Maresca called facing Mourinho a privilege, played down pressure on his position, and said his squad remains confident despite the current dip.