According to a report by Evening Standard on Saturday, October 17, 2026, Chelsea defender Pep Chavarria was a surprise absentee from the starting lineup for the Premier League clash against Everton after suffering a minor fitness problem shortly before the match.

The Spanish defender travelled with the Chelsea squad to Hill Dickinson Stadium and was even pictured arriving at the venue and surveying the pitch. However, he was eventually left out of manager Xabi Alonso’s starting eleven following the late setback.

Chavarria had been expected to start at left wing-back after featuring in Chelsea’s previous two Premier League matches against Brentford and Bournemouth. Instead, Alonso selected Jorrel Hato to fill the position.

Speaking to TNT Sports before the match, Alonso explained that Chavarria’s problem emerged on Friday, leaving the club uncertain about his condition.

“Pep had a little problem yesterday. We are not certain of the situation yet because it was late. Jorrel is fit and has played there, so it's just that change,” the Chelsea manager said.

Chavarria’s omission appeared to be a precautionary decision following the late fitness concern rather than a tactical change or disciplinary issue.

The 28-year-old has made eight appearances across all competitions since completing a reported £16 million move from LaLiga side Rayo Vallecano in August. He had recently begun establishing himself in Alonso’s team, making his absence from the starting lineup particularly surprising.

Hato’s inclusion was the only change to Chelsea’s starting eleven from the side that secured a 5-1 victory over Bournemouth in their previous Premier League outing.

Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson retained his place in midfield after scoring twice and providing an assist on his first Chelsea start against Bournemouth.

Captain Reece James remained unavailable after undergoing knee surgery, while Jamie Gittens and Emmanuel Emegha were also sidelined.

However, Alonso did not provide further details about the severity of Chavarria’s fitness problem or how long the defender might be unavailable.