Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest prediction 04.05.2026 | Premier League

Chelsea’s season has been marked by inconsistency, reflected in a poor run of eight defeats in their last twelve matches. The Blues have lost five consecutive league games, including a heavy 3–0 defeat away to Brighton, and are also winless in their last five league fixtures at Stamford Bridge. However, a 1-0 victory over Leeds in the FA Cup semi-final should provide Chelsea with a slight confidence boost heading into this matchup against the in-form Forest side.

Injury issues continue to disrupt squad stability. Key absentees include Reece James (hamstring) and Estevao, who is ruled out for the remainder of the campaign. Defensively, Levi Colwill is still recovering from a serious knee injury, while Trevoh Chalobah is only just returning from an ankle problem.

Off the pitch, instability has also played a role, with interim management in place after a coaching change, which has contributed to inconsistent performances.

Nottingham Forest arrive in much stronger form, currently unbeaten in nine consecutive matches. Vítor Pereira’s men head into this fixture in an uplifting mood following their 1-0 win over fellow Premier League side Aston Villa in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-final. If Forest can maintain this slender advantage from the first leg, they would reach their first European final in nearly 40 years.

As for Premier League matters, Forest have practically secured their place in the top flight for next season after recording three wins in their last four league fixtures.

However, Forest are not without injury concerns. Callum Hudson-Odoi, Willy Boly, and John Victor are all sidelined for the remainder of the campaign, while other defensive absences could impact squad depth.