Brentford 2-2 Chelsea — Match Report

Chelsea’s hopes of climbing the Premier League table were dented on 13 September 2025 as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Brentford at the GTech Community Stadium.

How it unfolded:

35’ | Kevin Schade put Brentford in front with a deflected strike after Jordan Henderson’s lofted pass caused problems in Chelsea’s backline.

61’ | Cole Palmer, making his return from injury, leveled just minutes after coming on  a reminder of his importance to Enzo Maresca’s side.

85’ | Moisés Caicedo looked to have sealed victory with a thunderous shot assisted by Alejandro Garnacho.

93’ | Fabio Carvalho pounced in stoppage time from a long throw to rescue a point for Brentford, sparking wild home celebrations.

Key Takeaways:

Palmer’s return was the biggest positive, showing sharpness after weeks out.

Defensive lapses again hurt Chelsea, who have conceded multiple late goals this season.

Brentford’s long throws remain lethal weapons, exposing Chelsea’s vulnerability at set pieces.

The draw cost Chelsea a chance to go top of the Premier League, leaving questions about their ability to close out games.

Chelsea Squad Updates

Liam Delap: Hamstring injury now rules him out until December 2025, a huge blow for Chelsea’s attacking options.

Cole Palmer: Back fit and already making an impact  managed carefully after his groin issue.

Alejandro Garnacho: New arrival featured off the bench, though Maresca admits he is not yet fully match-fit.

Manchester City vs Manchester United — Derby Preview

The Manchester Derby at the Etihad headlines the weekend, with both teams carrying injuries but desperate for bragging rights.

Manchester City:

Omar Marmoush, Rayan Aït-Nouri, and Ryan Cherki are ruled out.

John Stones is a doubt.

Gianluigi Donnarumma could debut, but Pep Guardiola may stick with James Trafford.

Manchester United:

Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and Diogo Dalot miss out.

Benjamin Sesko could be handed his first Premier League start up front.

Bruno Fernandes likely plays a more advanced creative role.

Tactical Expectations:

City will dominate possession, looking to stretch United’s backline with width and quick rotations.

United will seek to counter through Fernandes’ vision and Sesko’s physical runs in behind.

A cagey opening is expected, with the game likely decided by transitions or late set-piece drama.

Prediction:

City edge as favourites due to home advantage, but United’s counter-attacking threat makes them dangerous. A 2-1 City win looks most likely.

Final Word

Chelsea’s inability to see out games is becoming a theme, and with injuries piling up, Enzo Maresca faces a stern test of squad depth and mentality. Meanwhile, the Manchester Derby promises high stakes, tactical battles, and potentially season-defining momentum for either side.