(DDM) – Chelsea have turned their focus to a challenging December schedule after battling to a hard-earned 1–1 draw against Arsenal in a tense London derby at Stamford Bridge.
DDM gathered that the Blues were forced to settle for a share of the points after Trevoh Chalobah powered in a header early in the second half, only for Arsenal to later hit back with an equaliser that silenced the home crowd.
The result added another chapter to Chelsea’s turbulent season under head coach Enzo Maresca, who has struggled to maintain consistency despite flashes of improvement across key fixtures.
The London club has endured a campaign marked by squad adjustments, tactical reshuffles and growing pressure to secure a top-six finish, making every December match critical to their ambitions.
The draw against Arsenal has now heightened focus on the team’s next five league fixtures, with analysts describing the run as season-defining.
Chelsea begin this demanding stretch with a midweek trip to Elland Road for a showdown with Leeds United, scheduled for Wednesday night at 20:15 West African Time.
Leeds have been a difficult opponent for many visiting teams this season, especially at home, where their aggressive pressing and high-intensity play have unsettled several top Premier League sides.
Chelsea’s defensive structure will be tested heavily in this encounter, particularly as the club continues to struggle with maintaining leads late in matches.
Their next fixture takes them to the Vitality Stadium for a Saturday afternoon meeting with AFC Bournemouth, kicking off at 15:00 West African Time.
Bournemouth have enjoyed a resurgence in form and currently pose a serious threat to sides that underestimate their transitional pace and tactical discipline.
Chelsea will then return to Stamford Bridge for a crucial clash against Everton on Saturday, December 13, 2025, with kickoff also set for 15:00 West African Time.
Everton’s season has been overshadowed by financial sanctions and squad limitations, but the Toffees remain fiercely competitive, especially in fixtures where physicality becomes the deciding factor.
Four days later, Chelsea travel again, this time to St James’ Park for a December 20 showdown against Newcastle United at 12:30 PM.
Newcastle have transformed into one of the league’s most tactically organised sides, making St James’ Park one of the most intimidating venues for visiting teams.
Chelsea will close this gruelling five-match sequence with a home fixture against Aston Villa, kicking off at 17:30 West African Time.
Villa continue to push for European qualification and have consistently troubled Chelsea with their speed, organisation and midfield strength.
This five-game run is expected to shape Chelsea’s trajectory going into the second half of the season, with supporters hoping the team can avoid costly slip-ups during this crowded December schedule.
Analysts argue that the Blues must balance rotation, discipline and tactical clarity if they hope to gather enough points to remain competitive in the league standings.