Chelsea have endured a stubborn run without a clean sheet in 21 Premier League games, and the early stages of the season have seen 12 goals conceded in their first five league matches. These factors will push Alonso to make decisive changes at the back and in central midfield as he builds a more solid, consistent reprieve for his side.
One key point of focus is Romeo Lavia. After a challenging spell earlier in his Chelsea career, Lavia is starting to show the form that justified Chelsea’s £58 million investment. His recent performances for Belgium, including a standout assist in a 4-1 defeat to France, have raised his profile and confidence. With his peak form and fitness improving, Lavia is well positioned to secure a starting role on Saturday, providing energy, progression, and ball-winning ability in midfield.
In midfield, Alonso has several options. The previous fixture at Brentford saw Jordan Henderson and Valentin Barco handed starts, but the combination did not click as hoped. Barco and Henderson remain viable options, and Moises Caicedo is back in consideration, though he may start from the bench. Reece James is also on track to be fit, and while Alonso’s preferred double pivot is Caicedo and James, it might be too soon to deploy that pairing together. Given current form and the need for balance, Lavia is a strong candidate to reclaim a starting berth in the middle of the park.
