According to a report by London Evening Standard on Thursday, October 29, 2026, Chelsea will welcome Manchester United to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, October 31, as both sides prepare for an important Premier League encounter.

Manager Xabi Alonso will be hoping his team can return to winning ways after suffering defeats in their recent matches. However, the Chelsea manager has several injury concerns to consider ahead of the meeting with United.

Cole Palmer is available again after serving his one-match suspension. His return will provide Chelsea with an important attacking option as they prepare for the game.

However, Maxence Lacroix is a major doubt after picking up a hamstring problem during Wednesday's Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool. Reece James is also unavailable following knee surgery, while Joao Pedro is expected to miss several weeks because of a thigh injury.

Jamie Gittens remains sidelined with an ankle problem, while goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is recovering from a broken jaw.

Malo Gusto and Moises Caicedo will also need to be assessed after experiencing physical problems during the Liverpool match. Jorrel Hato and Pep Chavarria are other players whose fitness will be monitored before the weekend.

Despite these concerns, Alonso is expected to make some changes to his starting team, particularly with Palmer available again.

Chelsea will need a strong performance against Manchester United, who will also be looking to improve their results in the Premier League.

Alonso will hope his available players can deliver a good performance and help Chelsea secure all three points in front of their home supporters.

Predicted Chelsea Lineup:

Penders; Acheampong, Colwill, Fofana, Neto; Caicedo, Henderson; Hato, Palmer, Rogers; Welbeck.