According to a report by Chelsea Chronicles on Sunday, October 18, 2026, Everton manager David Moyes admitted that Chelsea’s decision to start Jorrel Hato instead of Pep Chavarria disrupted his team’s tactical preparations during their 2-0 Premier League defeat on Saturday.

Moyes had expected Chavarria to feature at left-back and selected Merlin Röhl on the right side of Everton’s attack to exploit the anticipated threat. However, Chavarria’s absence meant Everton faced Hato, whose performance helped Chelsea secure their second consecutive league victory under manager Xabi Alonso.

Pedro Neto was the decisive figure at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, scoring shortly after half-time before completing his brace in the 90th minute. Chelsea also recorded their first Premier League clean sheet of the season, providing further encouragement for Alonso as he continues to implement his tactical approach.

Explaining Everton’s expectations before the match, Moyes said: "We actually expected Pep Chavarria to play at left-back. We thought with his attacking work, and what was required, the person who we thought would be best to work would be Merlin Rohl in that position."

Röhl struggled to make the expected impact and became the first Everton player to be substituted. Meanwhile, Hato’s attacking contribution proved particularly important in Chelsea’s opening goal.

The Dutch defender used his pace and strength to advance down the left flank before delivering the ball that eventually reached Neto, who scored to give Chelsea the lead.

Hato’s performance has now created another selection decision for Alonso, with Chavarria expected to compete for a starting position when available.

Chelsea face a demanding schedule, with a Carabao Cup fourth-round tie against Liverpool followed by a Premier League meeting with Manchester United next weekend.

Chavarria’s attacking statistics suggest he could offer more consistent delivery from the left, having recorded stronger figures for crosses, key passes, progressive carries and touches in the opposition’s penalty area than Hato.

Nevertheless, Hato’s display against Everton demonstrated his ability to provide attacking energy while giving Alonso another option when defensive stability is required.