According to a report by Evening Standard on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, Chelsea are preparing for their highly anticipated Premier League encounter against Manchester United, with manager Xabi Alonso facing several important decisions regarding his starting lineup.

The Blues will welcome Michael Carrick's Manchester United to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, October 31, as they look to secure an important victory in front of their home supporters.

Chelsea enter the encounter following their disappointing Carabao Cup elimination against Liverpool on Wednesday night. The London club suffered a 6-5 penalty shootout defeat after both teams played out a 1-1 draw at Anfield.

Alonso could make several adjustments to his team, particularly with some important players unavailable through injury.

Chelsea are expected to adopt a 3-4-2-1 formation, allowing them to maintain defensive stability while providing sufficient attacking options against Manchester United.

Goalkeeper: Mike Penders

Mike Penders could retain his position between the posts following Emiliano Martinez's injury setback.

The Belgian goalkeeper will be hoping to produce an impressive performance against Manchester United's attacking players.

Defenders: Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill

Alonso could select a three-man defensive partnership consisting of Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill.

Acheampong could operate on the right side of the defence, while Lacroix may occupy the central position, provided he passes the necessary fitness checks.

Colwill is expected to complete the defensive arrangement on the left.

However, Lacroix's fitness remains a concern, meaning Alonso could consider alternative defensive options before announcing his team.

Midfielders: Pedro Neto, Moises Caicedo, Jordan Henderson and Jorrel Hato

Chelsea could deploy four players across midfield, with Pedro Neto operating as the right wing-back and Jorrel Hato providing width on the opposite flank.

Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson could form the central midfield partnership.

Caicedo's defensive contributions and ability to recover possession could prove important against Manchester United.

Henderson, meanwhile, would be expected to provide experience, leadership and composure in midfield.

Attacking Midfielders: Cole Palmer and Geovany Quenda

Cole Palmer is expected to return to Chelsea's starting lineup after serving his one-match suspension during the Carabao Cup encounter against Liverpool.

His return could provide Alonso with additional creativity in the attacking department.

Palmer could operate alongside Geovany Quenda behind the central striker, with both players responsible for creating opportunities and supporting Chelsea's attacking movements.

Striker: Morgan Rogers

Morgan Rogers could lead Chelsea's attack against Manchester United following João Pedro's injury setback.

Pedro has been ruled out for several weeks with a thigh injury, leaving Alonso with an important decision regarding his attacking options.

Rogers could be selected to occupy the central attacking position, although Danny Welbeck and Emmanuel Emegha are alternative options.

Chelsea's Possible Starting XI (3-4-2-1):

Goalkeeper: Mike Penders.

Defenders: Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill.

Midfielders: Pedro Neto, Moises Caicedo, Jordan Henderson and Jorrel Hato.

Attacking Midfielders: Cole Palmer and Geovany Quenda.

Striker: Morgan Rogers.

With Manchester United also experiencing difficulties this season, Chelsea will be hoping to take advantage of their home support and secure all three points.

However, Alonso's final selection will depend on the fitness of his players and their recovery following Wednesday's demanding encounter against Liverpool.