Premier League: Mamadou Sarr, a first start against Arsenal?

Europe 28 February 2026 at 12:35

Imed Ben Amara

News Editor

01.03.26 FT English Premier League

Arsenal

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Chelsea

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Back from his loan spell at Chelsea this winter, Mamadou Sarr has yet to make his first start for the Blues. That could very well change this Sunday, as he looks set to earn his first spot in the starting eleven for the London derby.

He made his Premier League debut last weekend against Burnley (1-1), coming off the bench in stoppage time. Now, he’s eyeing his first start in the English top flight. He made his Premier League debut last weekend against Burnley (1-1), coming off the bench in stoppage time. Now, he’s eyeing his first start in the English top flight.

After sitting on the bench against Wolverhampton and Leeds, the Senegal international (4 caps) managed just two minutes on the pitch against Burnley. However, his opportunity should come soon under the guidance of Liam Rosenior, his mentor who knows him well from their time together at Strasbourg.

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"I'm getting to know which players I can rely on when things get tough," Rosenior said after Zian Flemming's equalizer for Burnley last Saturday. That could boost Sarr’s chances of breaking into the next starting lineup.

Mamadou Sarr is expected to be paired with Trevoh Chalobah this Sunday for the London derby between Arsenal and Chelsea. It's a golden opportunity for him to prove he can become the leader of the Blues’ defense for years to come.

Related teams and leagues

Arsenal

Chelsea

English Premier League