According to a report by Football London on Saturday, 31 October 2026, Chelsea have received an encouraging injury update after Aaron Anselmino was spotted behind the dugout during their 2-0 Premier League victory over Manchester United on Saturday.

The Argentine defender returned to the stands after spending several weeks away from the first-team squad while recovering from a muscle injury.

His appearance comes at an important time for Xabi Alonso, who is facing growing concerns over his defensive options following Maxence Lacroix's latest injury setback.

Lacroix picked up a hamstring problem during Chelsea's Carabao Cup meeting with Liverpool and is expected to spend an extended period on the sidelines.

The setback has left Alonso with limited choices in central defence, increasing the importance of Anselmino's eventual return to full fitness.

Mail reporter Kieran Gill spotted the 20-year-old sitting behind the Chelsea bench at Stamford Bridge, providing the first visible indication of his return around the senior squad in several weeks.

However, Anselmino is not yet ready to resume competitive action. Alonso previously explained that the defender had suffered several injury problems and would need additional time to regain full fitness.

The Chelsea manager also stressed the importance of handling his recovery carefully to prevent further setbacks.

Speaking before the Manchester United match, Alonso said: "He’s had a few things, a few injuries and it still will take a few weeks until he’s fully fit and we need to be cautious with him because he has had a few of them so he’s still not there."

Chelsea's defensive situation has become increasingly complicated following Lacroix's injury.

Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo remain available options, while Wesley Fofana and Josh Acheampong could also be considered for roles in central defence.

Alonso may have to explore different defensive combinations until his injured players return, particularly with Chelsea facing a demanding fixture schedule.

Anselmino's return to the first-team environment is therefore a positive development, although the club will be keen to avoid rushing him back before he is completely ready.