Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images
Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images
The Chelsea Chronicle have predicted the XI Xabi Alonso will name as Chelsea make the trip to the Emirates to face Arsenal on Sunday.
After a perfect start to the season in both the Premier League and League Cup, Alonso’s side face their first major test of the campaign up against the defending champions.
A lot of their hopes are pinned on Moises Caicedo. After Enzo Fernandez’s exit and the Ecuadorian limping off against Brighton, midfield options could be scarce.
Predicted Chelsea XI vs Arsenal
The Chelsea Chronicle have predicted the side who will look to win against the Gunners in the league for just the second time since 2019.
New signing Emi Martinez is going to retain his place in the starting side, lining up against his former club at the Emirates.
Wesley Fofana will keep Josh Acheampong out of the side for the time being, with the Frenchman just having the edge when it comes to experience in big games.
The heartbeat of the back three will be Maxence Lacroix. It can be expected he is easily in for his toughest test since joining Chelsea.
On the left, Levi Colwill will be hoping he has blown away the cobwebs after his indifferent start to the campaign at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea FC v Brighton & Hove Albion - Premier League 2026/27
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After rejecting a late deadline day bid from Malo Gusto, he will retain his place in the starting side, this time away from central midfield.
Fellow traditional right-back Reece James will be used in midfield though. This looks as if it will be the position where his future lies under Alonso.
We are predicting he will be joined by Romeo Lavia, after his excellent start to the campaign. This means Caicedo will not be in the starting side.
At left wing-back, Jorrel Hato will maintain his place ahead of new signing Pep Chavarria.
Chelsea FC v Brighton & Hove Albion - Premier League 2026/27
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The front three is where Chelsea are going to be placing their hopes for this game. Cole Palmer will be looking to add to his goal in each league game so far this season.
Best friend Morgan Rogers will have a point to prove as well after many believed he was going to be joining Arsenal before Chelsea swooped in.
Joao Pedro has also been amongst the goals this season, and has previously enjoyed strong performances against Arsenal in the past for the Blues.