Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Emmanuel Emegha and Jamie Gittens will miss Saturday’s Premier League clash against Everton, while captain Reece James remains sidelined following knee surgery.

According to a report published on Chelsea Football Club’s official website on Friday, October 16, 2026, the Blues are preparing for their trip to Merseyside after securing an emphatic 5-1 victory over Bournemouth in their previous league outing.

The match will mark Chelsea’s first away fixture of the season, with Alonso hoping his players can maintain their momentum despite the absence of several important squad members.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, the Spanish manager revealed that the club had not suffered any other major injury setbacks. However, Emegha will be unavailable after picking up a minor problem during Thursday’s training session.

Alonso indicated that the striker could return to training next week, although he will not be ready to feature against Everton. Chelsea will therefore have to wait a little longer before considering him for competitive action.

Gittens is also set to miss the match after sustaining an injury while representing England Under-21s during the international break. The winger is expected to spend several more weeks recovering, leaving Alonso with fewer options in the attacking department.

James remains another significant absentee as he continues his rehabilitation following knee surgery. The Chelsea captain sustained the injury during training last Friday, and the club has yet to provide a definitive date for his return.

Despite losing an influential figure on the pitch, Alonso believes James can still support the team during his recovery. The manager pointed to the defender’s experience and leadership as qualities that will remain valuable to the squad even while he is unavailable to play.

Chelsea will now turn their attention to Everton as they attempt to extend their winning run and maintain their positive start to the campaign.

With both clubs having collected 10 points before the encounter, Saturday’s meeting presents an important opportunity for either side to gain an advantage over the other in the Premier League standings.