Paul Merson insists Chelsea winger Pedro Neto must start this weekend during his prediction for their trip to Tottenham.
On Saturday evening, Spurs host rivals Chelsea at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The visitors should feel confident that they have won the previous four consecutive meetings between the clubs.
Enzo Maresca’s side just edged a memorable 4-3 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup, but they desperately need a response in the Premier League, losing last weekend at home to Sunderland.
Danny Murphy’s verdict on Chelsea is that their rollercoaster season will continue because they have some obvious flaws in their squad.
Paul Merson says Pedro Neto must start in Tottenham vs Chelsea prediction
According to Paul Merson, Chelsea will edge out winners on the road against Spurs, but Pedro Neto must be in the starting line-up.
Merson told Sportskeeda: “This is the biggest game of the season for both teams. After this, Chelsea face Wolves and Burnley in the league. If they can beat Spurs this weekend, they will be confident of going into them games feeling like they can make it three straight wins before the international break…
“Chelsea must start with Pedro Neto in this game. It’s a big pitch at Tottenham and he’s quick as anything. I’m almost certain Estevao will also start the game. Both wingers must track back though. Spurs have full-backs who love to go forward, so if the Chelsea wingers do not help out in defence, their team will get overrun. I expect Enzo Maresca to make his team selection based on who he trusts more to do the defensive work down the flanks, otherwise Chelsea are in trouble.
“Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1-2 Chelsea.”
Similarly, Theo Walcott predicts a Chelsea win against Spurs, even though they are three points behind them after the opening nine Premier League matches this season.
In terms of Neto, 25, we do expect him to start at Spurs. In fact, the winger has started every single league game in the 2025-26 campaign so far.
Of course, the Portuguese attacker possesses the pace and skill to hurt any opposition, especially if there’s any room to counter-attack.
Earlier in the season, Jose Mourinho called Neto one of the world’s best wingers, which is some gigantic praise. We still want to see him be a little bit more consistent with his performances, and that means turning up for a crucial trip to Spurs.
Where Pedro Neto must improve
Neto’s record of two goals in nine league appearances this term is underwhelming for an individual with his ability. Without a doubt, we’d love to see the left-footed winger be more selfish in front of goal.
Here is a look at Chelsea players with the most shots per 90 in the 2025-26 Premier League season via FOTMOB:
It is slightly concerning to see Neto in the middle of the pack for shots per 90, so it is an area of his game that he can definitely improve on.