According to a report by London Evening Standard on Friday, October 30, 2026, Chelsea are preparing to welcome Manchester United to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, with Xabi Alonso hoping to guide his side back to winning ways after two successive defeats. The Blues could receive a major boost with Cole Palmer expected to return, but Maxence Lacroix is a doubt because of an injury.

Palmer missed Wednesday’s Carabao Cup meeting with Liverpool after serving a suspension for his dismissal during Chelsea’s defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. Despite his absence, Chelsea were unable to avoid another disappointing result, eventually losing on penalties at Anfield.

The situation has become more concerning for Alonso following Lacroix’s injury. The French centre-back was forced to leave the pitch shortly before the interval against Liverpool, raising fresh concerns about Chelsea’s defensive options.

Alonso revealed that the defender’s hamstring problem would require further medical examinations before the club could establish its seriousness. He stressed that it was too early to make a definite judgement, with additional assessments expected to provide more information in the coming days.

Chelsea’s injury situation has also been affected by the continued absence of several first-team regulars. Reece James is not expected to return until the new year after undergoing knee surgery, while Joao Pedro is also facing an extended spell out of action.

According to Alonso, the Brazilian forward picked up a thigh injury and will need additional time to recover. Pedro is currently undergoing rehabilitation, but the club has not given any indication of when he could be available again.

Gusto and Caicedo are also being monitored after encountering fitness issues in the Carabao Cup tie against Liverpool. While Caicedo managed to continue despite feeling discomfort, Gusto experienced cramp during the match.

There is, however, some positive news regarding Emi Martinez. The Chelsea goalkeeper could make his comeback earlier than expected after suffering a broken jaw. Following surgery, the Argentine has spoken with a specialist about the possibility of wearing protective equipment when he returns to action.

Hato and Chavarria could also be available for selection against Manchester United after missing the Liverpool trip. In contrast, Gittens will remain out of contention as he continues recovering from the ankle injury he picked up while on international duty with England Under-21s.

Predicted Chelsea XI: Penders; Acheampong, Colwill, Fofana; Neto, Caicedo, Henderson, Hato; Palmer, Rogers; Welbeck.

Injured: Jamie Gittens, Emi Martinez, Maxence Lacroix, Joao Pedro and Reece James.

Doubts: Malo Gusto, Moises Caicedo, Pep Chavarria and Jorrel Hato.