FC Heidenheim vs. Chelsea preview: Team news and predicted lineups

Back in the 2007/08 season, Heidenheim were playing in the fifth tier of German football.

Fast forward to 2024 and they're preparing to face Chelsea in the UEFA Europa Conference League - and, incredibly, the coach is the same as in 2007, namely Frank Schmidt.

The story of FC Heidenheim is a truly special one. And they'll be looking to take the next step towards qualifying for the next round when they welcome the mighty Chelsea to the Voith-Arena.

Frank Schmidt's side have won all three of their European league phase matches this season, but without taking anything away from the opponents they've faced so far, Chelsea are a different calibre of side.

After a strong start to the season, Heidenheim have fallen into a slump in the Bundesliga, where a six-game winless streak has seen them drop to 15th. Their most recent defeat came at the weekend against Bayer Leverkusen, where they led 2-0 early on but eventually lost 5-2.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are on a four-match unbeaten run in all competitions after a 2-1 win over Leicester City moved them up to third in the Premier League.

In terms of absentees, Heidenheim will be without striker Marvin Pieringer (Achilles) and long-term absentee Niehues.

Fofna, Lavia and Palmer, who all played for Chelsea at the weekend, won't be available as they have been left out of Chelsea's Conference League squad. Colwill (illness), Gusto (illness), James (thigh) and Neto (other) are doubts.

Click here to see our predicted Heidenheim vs. Chelsea lineups.