By OkayGoal 
Enzo Maresca will have a rare luxury heading into Chelsea clash with Nottingham Forest this Saturday: a near full-strength defensive unit. For once, the international break has provided more good than harm, with multiple first-team players returning from injury or suspension just in time for a key Premier League fixture.
Among those available again are Wesley Fofana, back after a concussion, Tosin Adarabioyo returning from a calf issue, and Trevoh Chalobah, who has served his suspension. While Benoît Badiashile held the line admirably during their absences, the big question now is which centre-back pairing Maresca will trust against Forest.
Wesley Fofana and Benoît Badiashile, High ceiling, low availability
Badiashile and Fofana are perhaps Chelsea’s most naturally gifted central defenders, and when fully fit, they offer the perfect blend of composure, aerial strength, and ball progression. Despite their troubling injury records since joining the Blues, both are available for selection this weekend, and it’s understood that Maresca is leaning toward starting the duo together.
The pair have rarely had the chance to develop chemistry due to their stop-start Chelsea careers, but this weekend could present a new opportunity. With Maresca keen to build from the back, their technical ability fits his style better than the more rugged but reliable Chalobah or Adarabioyo.
Top performers sidelined?
Interestingly, statistics suggest Adarabioyo and Chalobah have been Chelsea’s most consistent centre-backs this season. Chalobah in particular has earned praise for his leadership and versatility, while Adarabioyo’s composure and physical presence have given the backline a solid base.
However, Maresca appears focused on long-term upside and tactical cohesion over pure numbers. If Badiashile and Fofana are fit, they offer the highest ceiling even if there’s risk involved in fielding two defenders who have struggled with fitness.
Predicted back four vs Nottingham Forest
With Reece James likely to return and Marc Cucurella expected to start on the left, Maresca may opt for:
- RB: Reece James
- CB: Wesley Fofana
- CB: Benoît Badiashile
- LB: Marc Cucurella
It’s a bold selection, but if it works, it could be the beginning of a settled, high-quality backline Chelsea have lacked in recent seasons.