Arsenal Women have made five changes to their starting lineup for the Women's Super League derby against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Head coach Sonia Bompastor has recalled Emily Fox, Ona Batlle, Alessia Russo, Lisa Baum and Mariona Caldentey after they were on the bench for the mid-week Continental Cup win over Køge.

Kim Little, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Leah Williamson and Steph Catley all retain their places in the side. The team will line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Manuela Borbe in goal, a back four of Fox, Williamson, Catley and Batlle, a midfield pivot of Georgia Stanway and Cooney-Cross, and an attacking trio of Baum, Caldentey and Little behind lone striker Russo.

Match context

This London derby arrives with Arsenal sitting sixth in the WSL table, having taken five points from their opening three games. Their recent form shows two draws and a win, with only two goals scored in the league so far. The Gunners last won the title in 2019 and are seeking to challenge the dominance of champions Manchester City, who are seven points ahead already. Chelsea, who finished third last season, currently occupy fourth place.

Assistant coach Renee Slegers and Bompastor will be looking for a more potent attacking display from their reshuffled side. The match kicks off at 4.30pm BST at Stamford Bridge.

Team news and substitutes

The bench includes goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez and defenders Lotte Wubben-Moy. Attacking options available are forwards Caitlin Foord, Chloe Kelly and Stina Blackstenius, alongside midfielders Géraldine Reuteler and Olivia Smith. Youngsters Selina Cerci and Smilla Holmberg, who scored a dramatic late equaliser against Manchester United, are also among the substitutes. The full squad list is available on our squad page.

Chelsea, managed by Emma Hayes, start with Hannah Hampton in goal and a front three of Khadija Shaw, Lauren James and Melvine Malard. The Blues won the last meeting between the sides 2-1 back in September.

Looking ahead

A positive result is important for Arsenal's early-season momentum as they handle a packed fixture list. Their next assignment after this derby is another WSL match, with the full schedule available on our fixtures page. The team travels to Stamford Bridge on Sunday, 27 September 2026, aiming to close the gap on the league's frontrunners.

First reported at The Guardian Football