According to a report by Goal on Thursday, October 29, 2026, Chelsea are preparing for their upcoming Premier League clash against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge, with Xabi Alonso hoping to return to winning ways after his side were knocked out of the EFL Cup by Liverpool. The Blues will be keen to put that disappointment behind them and secure three important points against Michael Carrick's struggling team, and Alonso could make some changes to his starting line-up. Below is how Chelsea could line up on Saturday.

Formation: 3-4-2-1

Goalkeeper: Mike Penders

Defenders: Acheampong, Fofana, Colwill

Midfielders: Palestra, Henderson, Caicedo, Estevão Willian

Attackers: Pedro Neto, Morgan Rogers

Striker: Danny Welbeck

Mike Penders is expected to start in goal as Chelsea prepare for a difficult afternoon against Manchester United, while Josh Acheampong, Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill could form the three-man defence. The trio will need to stay organised and avoid making costly mistakes, especially against a United side that will be eager to take advantage of any defensive weakness.

In midfield, Marco Palestra could operate on the right, with Estevão Willian providing width on the opposite side. Henderson and Moisés Caicedo are likely to take up central midfield positions, where their work rate and ability to win possession will be important in helping Chelsea control the game and protect their defence.

Further forward, Pedro Neto and Morgan Rogers could play behind the main striker, Danny Welbeck, in a system that allows Chelsea to attack with pace and create chances through the middle. Neto's movement and Rogers' ability to link up play could cause problems for United if the home side move the ball quickly and make good use of the space available.

Welbeck is expected to lead the attack and will need to make the most of the chances created by his teammates. After the disappointment against Liverpool, Chelsea will hope this predicted line-up can deliver a stronger performance and help Alonso get his team back to winning ways.