According to a report by Football London on Friday, October 30, 2026, the two reporters have shared their preferred team selections ahead of Saturday's important Premier League encounter at Stamford Bridge.

Xabi Alonso's Chelsea will be determined to end their disappointing run of results after suffering consecutive defeats. Their latest setback came in the Carabao Cup, where they were eliminated by Liverpool following a penalty shootout at Anfield.

The Blues have also struggled to maintain consistency in the league, making the meeting with Manchester United an important opportunity to regain confidence and improve their performances.

Goalkeeper Mike Penders is expected to remain in the starting team, as Emiliano Martinez continues his recovery following surgery for a fractured jaw. The 21-year-old delivered an encouraging performance against Liverpool during the week, responding positively after facing criticism over his difficult Premier League debut against Tottenham.

Chelsea also have concerns about Maxence Lacroix, who reportedly sustained a hamstring injury during the Liverpool encounter. His fitness could determine how Alonso arranges his defensive options.

Vincent prefers a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Josh Acheampong, Levi Colwill, Jorrel Hato and Marco Palestra forming the defensive line. Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson would operate in central midfield, while Palmer would return to the attacking midfield position after completing his suspension.

Vincent also expects Estevao to occupy the right wing, with Morgan Rogers operating on the opposite side. Danny Welbeck is his preferred striker, ahead of Emmanuel Emegha.

Stokes has a different tactical approach, suggesting that Alonso should continue using his preferred three-man defensive system. He predicts Acheampong, Colwill and Hato will form the back three, supported by Pedro Neto and Palestra as wing-backs.

In midfield, Romeo Lavia is expected to partner Caicedo, while Palmer, Estevao and Rogers would provide the attacking threat behind the forward line.

Both journalists believe Estevao deserves more opportunities in the first team, particularly after struggling to secure regular playing time since Alonso took charge.

The Brazilian's potential inclusion against Manchester United could therefore represent an important opportunity to demonstrate his quality and establish himself as a regular option in Chelsea's Premier League campaign.