Josh Acheampong is not fit to play for Chelsea today, and we’ve got the first indications from the club about what has happened.

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The team news for today’s Chelsea – Sunderland game is out, and there are a few interesting changes made by Xabi Alonso.

Most were pretty predictable, as we knew about the injuries and absences the coach is dealing with. But one surprise change to the team was a first start for Marco Palestra. He replaces Josh Acheampong at right back, with the Englishman not present in the squad at all.

Acheampong misses out due to “minor” injury

That total absence of Acheampong indicated that it was injury or absence rather than a tactical change, and the journalists at the game have now filtered through the information that it’s a “minor” fitness problem.

We don’t have any more detail than that right now, but we’re sure Xabi Alonso will add some detail in the post-match press conference.

The upcoming international break should give plenty of time for the talented youngster to recover if the problem is indeed “minor.”

It provides an interesting chance for Marco Palestra to show what he can do from the start of a Premier League game.

Josh Acheampong's absence described as due to a minor issue. Missing for #CFC today but sounds like it's just this game he is unavailable for rather than anything to get worried about. International break coming too. #SUNCHE

— Simon Johnson (@SJohnsonSport) November 8, 2026

In other news…

The rest of the starting team is out and you can see it all here.

Aaron Anselmino is finally back in the Chelsea squad, and Xabi Alonso spoke about his return yesterday.

Cole Palmer named Romeo Lavia as one of the most underrated players in the Premier League in a Sky Sports interview.