WHO: Fulham vs Chelsea
WHAT: Premier League
WHEN: 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT • Monday, August 24, 2026
WHERE: Fubo
STREAM: WATCH NOW

Match Overview

Fulham kicks off their new era under manager Álvaro Arbeloa with a high-stakes West London derby. The Cottagers transformed Craven Cottage into a fortress last season, securing the sixth-best home record in the Premier League with an impressive 35 points from a possible 57. Their defense was particularly stout, with only Manchester City and Arsenal conceding fewer goals on home soil. The challenge now is to maintain that dominance without the guidance of former manager Marco Silva, making this opening test a crucial indicator of their direction.

Across London, Chelsea arrives with an urgent mandate for redemption. After a deeply disappointing 10th-place finish last season, the club has invested heavily and placed its faith in celebrated new head coach Xabi Alonso. The pressure is immense for the Blues to make an immediate statement and prove they are once again contenders for European qualification. An opening-day victory against a fierce local rival is not just desired; it is expected, as Alonso looks to implement his winning blueprint from day one.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This match presents a fascinating clash of clubs on different trajectories. Fulham aims to build upon the stability of a mid-table finish, but must navigate the transition to a new manager while integrating fresh talent. In contrast, Chelsea is in the midst of a comprehensive overhaul, banking on Alonso’s tactical genius and a massive summer spending spree to erase the memory of a frustrating campaign. The Blues are starting from a lower base but have far greater resources and expectations.

The tactical battle will likely be defined by Chelsea’s aggressive, possession-based style. Alonso’s teams are known for their high press, and Chelsea’s squad is already suited for it, having allowed the fewest passes per defensive action in the league last season. This puts immense pressure on Fulham to be precise and composed when playing out from the back. The game could be won or lost based on how Fulham’s midfield copes with Chelsea’s relentless pressure and whether they can exploit the space left behind on the counter-attack.

Motivation is sky-high on both sides. For Chelsea, anything less than a win would be seen as a setback, reigniting supporter frustration after a summer of renewed hope. They need to set the tone for a return to the top four. For Fulham, this is an opportunity to prove their progress is sustainable beyond Marco Silva. Defending their home turf against their wealthy neighbors and giving Arbeloa a signature win to start his tenure would provide a massive psychological boost for the season ahead.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, the West London derby has been dominated by Chelsea. Across 95 official meetings, the Blues have claimed victory 54 times compared to just 14 for Fulham, with 27 matches ending in a draw. This long-term record paints a clear picture of Chelsea’s superiority in the fixture over the decades.

However, recent encounters have been far more competitive, suggesting the gap has narrowed. Over the last five matchups, Chelsea holds a slender 3-2 advantage. Last season, the home team won each fixture; Chelsea secured a 2-0 victory at Stamford Bridge, while Fulham earned a memorable 2-1 win at Craven Cottage in January. This trend highlights the critical role home-field advantage has played in this derby lately.

Looking at the data, goals are a common feature. Both teams have scored in three of the last four meetings between the clubs. The average number of goals per game in the last five clashes stands at 2.4. Furthermore, the 2-1 scoreline has appeared in three of the last five games, making it a recurring outcome. Draws have become rare, with the last stalemate occurring back in 2023.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both squads enter this season opener with key personnel missing and are set to hand debuts to several high-profile summer signings.

Fulham’s biggest change is in the dugout, with Álvaro Arbeloa taking the reins. He will be forced into an immediate defensive reshuffle as Joachim Andersen is suspended. The absence of midfielder Tom Cairney, who is recovering from knee surgery, is another significant blow to the team’s creative core. This puts pressure on new arrivals like striker Gonzalo García and midfielder Cesar Palacios to integrate quickly.

Chelsea’s new manager Xabi Alonso also faces selection challenges. The Blues have a longer list of unavailable players, with Wesley Fofana suspended and several others, including Jordan Henderson and Emmanuel Emegha, dealing with injuries. This early test of squad depth means summer signings like defender Maxence Lacroix and attacker Morgan Rogers are expected to be thrust straight into the starting lineup as Alonso implements his new system.

Fulham Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Leno; Castagne, Cuenca, Bassey, Robinson; Iwobi, Berge; Bobb, King, Palacios; García

Arbeloa is expected to deploy a familiar 4-2-3-1 formation to provide stability. The lineup will feature the Premier League debut of striker Gonzalo García, who is tasked with leading the attack. In midfield, the experienced duo of Alex Iwobi and Sander Berge will be crucial in controlling the tempo and shielding the defense, especially with key players absent.

Chelsea Projected XI (3-4-2-1):
Sánchez; James, Lacroix, Colwill; Neto, Caicedo, Fernández, Palestra; Palmer, Rogers; Pedro

Reflecting his successful tenure at Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso is set to implement his signature 3-4-2-1 system from the start. This formation will see new signings Maxence Lacroix, Marco Palestra, and Morgan Rogers make their competitive debuts, signaling a clear tactical shift. The creative burden will fall on Cole Palmer and Rogers to supply chances for the lone striker.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Fulham vs Chelsea match live on Fubo. The service is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and iOS and Android mobile devices, as well as web browsers.

In addition to this Premier League clash, a subscription to Fubo gives you access to a host of other soccer competitions. You can stream top European leagues, cup tournaments, and international matches throughout the season.

The service is available for a monthly fee of $64.99/month, offering a comprehensive package for soccer fans. This plan provides access to all live matches, on-demand replays, and exclusive content.

Beyond soccer, the service includes a deep library of movies, TV shows, and original programming, making it an all-in-one entertainment solution for the entire household.

SEE MORE: Fubo Soccer Schedule.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out NordVPN’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.

Match Overview

The Premier League title race is reaching a fever pitch, and Arsenal finds itself in a must-win situation as it hosts Fulham. With only four games left, the Gunners are clinging to a slim lead over a relentless Manchester City, who hold a crucial game in hand. The pressure is compounded by a high-stakes Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid, forcing Mikel Arteta’s squad to balance European ambitions with domestic urgency.

Fulham arrives at the Emirates not merely to play spoiler but with their own European aspirations on the line. Currently sitting 10th, Marco Silva‘s side is just points away from a potential Europa or Conference League spot. Coming off an impressive victory against Aston Villa, the Cottagers are poised to capitalize on any fatigue or distraction from the league leaders, making this a high-stakes clash for both clubs.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This season represents a historic opportunity for Arsenal, who are chasing their first league title in over two decades alongside a potential first-ever Champions League trophy. Their campaign has been built on a rock-solid defense, boasting the best expected goals against (xGA) in the league. However, their attack has recently struggled to convert dominance into clear-cut chances, making every fixture a tense affair.

Fulham, meanwhile, has secured a comfortable top-half position and demonstrated an ability to grind out results, even with limited possession. Their tactical approach against Arsenal will likely be disciplined and defensive, aiming to absorb pressure and hit on the counter-attack. The match will be a classic battle of styles: Arsenal‘s possession-heavy approach against Fulham‘s organized, counter-punching strategy.

The motivations are crystal clear. For Arsenal, anything less than three points could be fatal to their title hopes. They must navigate the physical and mental toll of their two-front battle. For Fulham, this is a chance to make a statement, spoil a rival’s party, and keep their dream of European qualification alive, ensuring they will not be a passive opponent.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

History overwhelmingly favors the home side in this fixture. In one of the most one-sided records in English football history, Arsenal has never lost a home league match against Fulham. Across 32 encounters at home, the Gunners have won 25 and drawn seven, establishing an incredible fortress that the Cottagers have never breached.

Despite this daunting long-term record, recent meetings have been more competitive. While Arsenal is unbeaten in the last three matchups (two wins, one draw), Fulham managed a victory and two draws in the five games prior. The reverse fixture this season was a tight 1-0 win for Arsenal, signaling that Fulham is capable of keeping the game close.

Recent form for both clubs points towards a potentially low-scoring game. Under 2.5 goals has been a feature in five of Arsenal’s last six home matches across all competitions. Similarly, six of Fulham‘s last seven games have also seen two or fewer goals scored, suggesting that goals may be at a premium at the Emirates.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both managers are contending with significant injuries to key players that will impact their game plans.

Arsenal’s formidable defense has been hit hard, with Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber expected to miss out. Midfield creativity is also a concern, as Kai Havertz has been ruled out. However, the Gunners receive a major boost with the anticipated return of Eberechi Eze to the starting lineup, adding a much-needed spark to the attack.

Fulham also has availability issues. Ryan Sessegnon was forced off in their last match and is unavailable, while Kenny Tete and Alex Iwobi remain sidelined. These absences limit Marco Silva’s options, particularly in wide areas and midfield, forcing him to rely on his squad’s depth against the league leaders.

Arsenal Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Raya; Hincapie, Gabriel, Saliba, White; Zubimendi, Rice; Trossard, Eze, Madueke; Gyokeres

This lineup will rely on the midfield pairing of Zubimendi and Rice to control the tempo and shield a depleted defense. The return of Eze is critical, as he will be tasked with creating chances for top scorer Viktor Gyokeres alongside Trossard and Madueke.

Fulham Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Leno; Robinson, Andersen, Bassey, Castagne; Lukic, Berge; Chukwueze, Smith Rowe, Wilson; Jimenez

Fulham is expected to field a compact 4-2-3-1 formation designed to frustrate Arsenal. The defensive midfield duo of Lukic and Berge will be crucial in breaking up play, while the attack will depend on the incisiveness of Harry Wilson and Emile Smith Rowe to launch quick counters in support of striker Raul Jimenez.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Arsenal vs Fulham match on DirecTV Stream. The service is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and mobile devices running iOS or Android.

In addition to the Premier League, a subscription to DirecTV Stream gives you access to a host of other top soccer competitions, including La Liga, Serie A, and Liga MX. It is the ultimate destination for soccer fans in the US.

The most basic service is available for a monthly fee of $69.99, offering comprehensive coverage of world soccer all season long. You can also find bundle deals that include other sports and entertainment channels

SEE MORE: Schedule of Premier League games on US TV and streaming.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as Nord VPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.

His confidence recently led him to make a bold claim: in one key statistical category, he believes he stands above both Messi and Ronaldo. The statement raised eyebrows across the soccer world. Yet when the numbers behind Jimenez’s record are examined, the comparison suddenly becomes much harder to dismiss.

Jimenez has become one of the most successful Mexican players ever to play in England. After making his mark with Wolverhampton and continuing his career with Fulham, the striker has established himself as a dependable presence in the Premier League.

The former academy product of Club America now holds the record for the most goals scored by a Mexican player in England, with 67 goals across his Premier League career. Beyond the raw numbers, his influence has been particularly evident during his time at Fulham. His leadership in attack and calm presence in crucial moments have made him a key figure at Craven Cottage.

This season alone, the 34-year-old has scored nine goals in all competitions, helping the club push toward the upper half of the league table. But it is not just his open-play goals that have drawn attention. Instead, a remarkable pattern has emerged whenever a referee points to the penalty spot.

The hidden record that sets Jimenez apart

While comparisons with Messi and Ronaldo usually focus on total goals or trophies, Jimenez’s advantage comes from a different category entirely. Since the beginning of his professional career, the Mexican striker has produced an extraordinary level of efficiency from the penalty spot.

Jimenez has an incredible 95.5 percent success record in official competitions since making his professional debut, scoring 42 penalties from 44 tries. His only two misses came under unique circumstances: one with the Mexican national team in a friendly against Uruguay, when goalkeeper Fernando Muslera saved his effort in 2018, and another during a high-pressure Europa League quarter-final against Sevilla while he was playing for Wolves.

Aside from those two moments, the experienced veteran has been nearly flawless. By comparison, Messi has converted 114 penalties from 146 attempts, a success rate of 78.1 percent, while Ronaldo has scored 181 out of 217 penalties, producing an 83.4 percent success rate, according to statistics compiled by Transfermarkt.

Jimenez’s bold claim about the GOAT debate

Despite the intimidating reputations of Messi and Ronaldo, Jimenez has no hesitation in backing his own numbers. During an interview with FOX Sports, the Fulham striker was asked to compare his penalty-taking ability with several famous names, including Messi and Ronaldo.

The Mexican forward confidently placed himself at the top of the list. “Whether you like it or not, I have a better success rate than all of the ones you mentioned,” Jimenez said. “I don’t know if I’m the best in the world, but it’s something that characterizes me. I’ll stick with myself.”

The comment quickly sparked debate among fans on social media, with many surprised by the striker’s bold comparison with two of soccer’s greatest icons. Yet the numbers provide strong support for his claim.

Match Overview

The Champions League qualification fight takes center stage as Manchester United ride the momentum of a thrilling 3–2 win over league leaders Arsenal, a result that lifted the Red Devils into fourth place after Matchday 23.

Fulham, meanwhile, sit on 34 points and know a victory would pull them right back into the European mix, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash with major implications at the top of the table—don’t miss this one.

Match Overview

A high-stakes West London Derby headlines Matchday 21 as Chelsea and Fulham collide with European qualification firmly in the spotlight. Chelsea enter the derby with momentum after salvaging a late draw against Manchester City, a result that kept them in the hunt for a Champions League place.

Fulham aren’t far behind, trailing the Blues by just three points and eyeing a statement victory that would not only deliver neighborhood bragging rights but also pull them level in the table. With both chasing continental ambitions and the intensity of a local rivalry, this is a matchup you won’t want to miss.

Jimenez scored Fulham’s lone goal in Saturday’s 1-0 victory over West Ham United. That strike allowed him to draw level with Alexis Sanchez on the all-time list of Latin American goalscorers in the Premier League, with a total of 63 goals.

The Mexican striker reached that impressive figure across seven and a half seasons. His first five were spent with Wolverhampton, where he scored 40 goals between 2019 and 2023. Since then, Raul has added 23 goals with Fulham.

Jimenez’s next target is Luis Suarez. The current Inter Miami player shined with Liverpool before moving to Barcelona, scoring 69 goals for one of England’s most historic clubs between 2010 and 2014. With half a season still to play before the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaign, Jimenez appears well positioned to surpass that mark.

Top Latin American goalscorers in England

Raul Jimenez’s performances in the Premier League have placed him among a select group of elite forwards. If he manages to overtake Luis Suarez, he would move into sixth place on the all-time list and draw closer to other notable Latin American benchmarks.

The top five includes two players who are still active in England and have the opportunity to continue improving their totals. One is Richarlison, who has recorded 71 goals with Everton and Tottenham. Just above him is Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus with 76 goals. Another Brazilian occupies third place: Roberto Firmino, who scored 82 goals with Liverpool.

At the top of the list are two former Argentine stars. Carlos Tevez scored 84 goals during his time with West Ham United, Manchester United, and Manchester City. Sergio Aguero stands as the undisputed No. 1, having scored 184 Premier League goals for Manchester City and ranking as the league’s second-highest foreign goalscorer of all time, behind only Mohamed Salah.

Jimenez emerges as Mexico’s leading striker ahead of the World Cup

Less than six months remain until the 2026 World Cup, and most qualified national teams have a relatively clear picture of how they will approach the tournament. Mexico are no exception, despite some disappointing performances and results in recent months.

Head coach Javier Aguirre has primarily relied on two center forwards during his current tenure with the Mexico national team: Santiago Gimenez and Raul Jimenez. However, the current contrast in their situations appears to tip the balance.

While Raul Jimenez remains in strong form in the Premier League—playing an important role for Fulham and scoring regularly—Santiago Gimenez has struggled with physical issues in recent months, which have affected his performances with AC Milan. In that context, Jimenez appears to hold a clear advantage heading into the World Cup.

Match Overview

Manchester City roll into Matchday 14 looking to keep the pressure on at the top of the Premier League table, having sliced Arsenal’s lead to five points following a dramatic 3–2 win over Leeds and the Gunners’ draw against Chelsea.

Pep Guardiola’s squad now prepares for a pivotal showdown with a Fulham squad parked in 15th place and eager to build a safer cushion above the relegation line. With City pushing to stay in the title hunt and the Cottagers fighting to create real breathing room, this matchup promises to be a high-stage clash.

After a narrow 1-0 defeat to Arsenal last week in a game where United still left a positive impression, they traveled to Craven Cottage to face Fulham. Despite taking the lead from a corner in the 58th minute, United conceded an equalizer in the 73rd and struggled to regain control late on.

According to OptaJoe, Ruben Amorim’s Premier League win percentage has now dropped to just 24.1%, with only seven victories in 29 league matches. That figure is on par with Neil Warnock, who managed the same percentage with 27 wins in 112 games—though Warnock was relegated with Sheffield United in 2006-07 and Cardiff City in 2018-19.

The numbers look even worse when stretching back to last season. Since Matchday 30 of the 2024-25 campaign, when United faced Nottingham Forest on April 1, Amorim’s side has collected just one win, three draws, and seven defeats in their last 11 league games, a run that has only deepened concerns.

There was great excitement around Amorim’s appointment in November 2024, and the team’s run to the Europa League final was seen as a step forward, even though they finished as runners-up to Tottenham. But with United stumbling at the start of the 2025-26 season, pressure is mounting not only on the players but also on the Portuguese coach, who has yet to get the best out of his squad.

Manchester United working on goalkeeper signing

One of United’s biggest issues in recent years has been the goalkeeper position. Andre Onana has been widely regarded as a failed signing, with costly errors undermining his time at Old Trafford, while backup Altay Bayındır has struggled to establish himself as a reliable option.

United have been in the market for a new goalkeeper since the summer window opened, and according to Fabrizio Romano, the club is closing in on a deal for Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp. The Belgian was left out of Antwerp’s squad for their game on Sunday, fueling speculation of his imminent move to Manchester.

Argentina star Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez was also considered, but talks with Aston Villa collapsed after the club demanded a high transfer fee. With Lammens reportedly agreeing to personal terms and only the final fee left to be negotiated, United appear set to finally reinforce their goalkeeping position.

Match Overview

Manchester United will be searching for their first win of the Premier League season after stumbling in their opener, where Arsenal’s depth and summer additions proved too much despite some encouraging signs from the Red Devils.

Their next test comes against Fulham, a side that battled Brighton to a gritty draw and is just as eager to notch their first victory of the campaign. Don’t miss this early-season clash as both clubs push to build momentum.

The Cottagers, while unable to break into the European mix, have impressed this year and would love nothing more than to end on a high by upsetting a Premier League powerhouse. Don’t miss this decisive clash for Citizens Champions League aspirations.

Fulham, meanwhile, have been inconsistent this season, but they’re still chasing a spot in European competition. A strong result against Arsenal would be a major boost to their ambitions. Don’t miss this exciting clash!