Xabi Alonso press conference ahead of Arsenal vs Chelsea
Chelsea Football Newsletter
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Chelsea are sweating over the fitness of Moises Caicedo ahead of the today’s crucial Premier League derby at Arsenal.
The Blues head to the Emirates this afternoon in their third league game of the season, having won their opening two.
Chelsea won 4-3 against Brighton last time out, in an impressive attacking display, but it was a win somewhat overshadowed by Caicedo both returning from injury and then 14 minutes later being forced off.
Alonso said of the midfielder last weekend: “Hopefully, it’s not new, and it wasn’t more than last time. “He was cautious to stop, to say that his feeling was not the best. We need to assess during the week that it wasn’t something else.”
That means Caicedo is a serious doubt for the upcoming London derby, and Alonso was unable to confirm the player’s involvement when speaking to the media on Friday.
Injury worry: Moises Caicedo
Jordan Henderson has not yet played for his new club, due to a wrist injury suffered at the World Cup, and Alonso is still waiting for the “green light” before handing the 36-year-old his debut.
Another summer signing, Marco Palestra, has also been sidelined with injury.
Reece James could start in midfield, where Alonso is expected to deploy him this season, and his importance in that position is due to grow after Enzo Fernandez departed for Manchester City and the transfer of Lamine Camara collapsed.
Valentin Barco is another option in midfield, but might be left on the bench in favour of the more experienced Romeo Lavia, who scored the opener against Brighton last time out.
Emi Martinez will keep his place in goal, while the new-look front three of Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro will again form the fearsome attack.
Jorrel Hato and Pep Chavarria are the two options at left wing-back.
Celsea predicted XI vs Arsenal (3-4-2-1): Martinez; Fofana, Lacroix, Colwill; Neto, Lavia, James, Hato; Rogers, Palmer; Joao Pedro
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Injured: Henderson, Palestra
Doubt: Caicedo
Time and date: 4:30pm BST on Sunday, September 6, 2026
Venue: Emirates Stadium
How to watch: Sky Sports