Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest: Preview, team news, injuries and form guide
By Luke Oluoch, May 4, 2026Chelsea FC seeks to solidify their season turnaround as they face rivals Nottingham Forest this Monday, May 4, 2026.
The two teams are fighting at opposite ends of the table; Forest sits 16th in the Premier League, plotting to survive the relegation threat, while the West Londoners seek to climb further out of mid-table.
The race for Europe
The Blues approach the tie amid fierce jostling for position. Only four points separated sixth through twelfth place at the start of the weekend. Brighton’s defeat over the weekend has kept the race for Europe tight, with AFC Bournemouth currently occupying sixth following their 3-0 win over Crystal Palace. Chelsea can move up to seventh with a win, leaving them just one point behind the Cherries with three games remaining.
After enduring a mixed run of results, Chelsea recently turned their fortunes around, snapping a five-game winless streak. However, they have their work cut out for them; Nottingham Forest haven’t lost a match since their goalless draw against Fulham on March 15, 2026.
Resurgent Forest
Recent wins over Tottenham and Sunderland have Vítor Pereira’s team nearing safety. Simultaneously, they are chasing European glory, currently holding a first-leg advantage over local rivals Aston Villa in continental competition.
Chelsea interim boss McFarlane sounded a note of caution ahead of the clash:
“I have watched many of their games,” said McFarlane. “They are a really, really good side in great form, and they have several top-quality players, some real threats that we have to be aware of. It is another massive game and a big challenge, as every game in the Premier League is. But we will be ready.”
Team News
Nottingham Forest: Manager Vítor Pereira has several injury concerns, including former Chelsea players Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ola Aina. Hudson-Odoi has been ruled out, while Aina faces a late fitness test alongside Dan Ndoye, Ibrahim Sangaré, Jair Cunha, and—most critically—key center-back Murillo. Willy Boly, Nicolò Savona, and backup goalkeeper John Victor are also sidelined.
For the Blues, Moises Caicedo looks certain to make a start to mark his 110th Premier League game for the Blues. Joao Pedro will also make his 50th appearance, the same as Tosin Adarabioyo.
Fernandez and Neto are both one game away from a half-century of games for Chelsea this season.
The games kick off at 5:00 pm.