Chelsea travel to the Emirates to face Arsenal in what represents Xabi Alonso’s first major test since becoming manager, with the visitors’ attacking form set against concerns over their defensive record.
Chelsea have scored seven goals in their opening two matches under Alonso, but they have also conceded five. Their results against Fulham and Brighton could have been better, although the start could also have been considerably worse for the new manager.
The match will be Alonso’s first against one of the Premier League’s established ‘big six’ clubs. He will come up against Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, a former team-mate, and an Arsenal side that has allowed an expected goals figure of only 0.53 across its first two games.
Chelsea have made fast starts in both of their matches so far, scoring inside the opening four minutes against Fulham and Brighton. That early attacking threat will give Alonso hope that his side can find a way through an Arsenal defence that has proved difficult to break down.
There are no suspension concerns for Chelsea, but the squad does have injury issues to manage. Moises Caicedo remains a major doubt for the game, although Alonso said during his pre-match press conference that the midfielder would be assessed before kick-off.
New arrivals Marco Palestra and Jordan Henderson will both miss the match.
Arsenal also have no suspended players available for selection. William Saliba remains sidelined by a back injury and is not expected to return before the international break. Jurrien Timber is doubtful because of an ankle problem.
The confirmed teams are:
Arsenal: Raya; White, Konsa, Gabriel, Calafiori; Guimaraes, Rice, Saka, Odegaard, Tzolis; Havertz.
Chelsea: Martinez; Fofana, Lacroix, Colwill; Gusto, James, Lavia, Hato; Palmer, Rogers; Pedro.
For Alonso, the fixture arrives at an important stage of his early Chelsea tenure. His side have shown plenty of attacking energy, but the five goals conceded in their first two games underline the defensive challenge facing them against an Arsenal team that has produced a particularly strong start without the ball.
Arsenal will also be seeking to extend their recent advantage in this fixture. Chelsea have not beaten them in a competitive match since a 2-0 victory in August 2021.