According to a report by London Evening Standard on Saturday October 31, 2026, Chelsea have handed Estevao a surprise starting role against Manchester United in their Premier League encounter, while Cole Palmer returns after suspension. However, several important players remain unavailable because of injuries.

Palmer missed Chelsea’s midweek Carabao Cup defeat against Liverpool, which ended in a penalty shootout. His suspension followed a red card during the Blues’ disappointing 2-0 loss against Tottenham last weekend.

Chelsea also suffered a significant setback at Anfield when defender Maxence Lacroix sustained a hamstring injury shortly before halftime. Xabi Alonso confirmed the centre-back would miss several weeks, potentially extending his absence beyond November.

Reports suggest Lacroix could remain unavailable until the beginning of next year, creating another defensive concern for Chelsea. The summer signing joins several teammates currently recovering from injuries during a demanding period.

Captain Reece James is expected to remain sidelined until January after undergoing knee surgery. Meanwhile, striker Joao Pedro continues recovering from a thigh problem, with Alonso expecting his absence to last several weeks.

There is encouraging news regarding Malo Gusto and Moises Caicedo, who are available despite experiencing discomfort during the Liverpool match. Pep Chavarria has also returned to the substitutes’ bench for the Manchester United showdown.

Goalkeeper Emi Martinez could return earlier than initially anticipated after suffering a broken jaw. The Argentine has consulted a specialist about wearing a protective face mask following surgery, although Chelsea must assess his recovery before confirming availability.

Jamie Gittens remains unavailable because of an ankle injury sustained while representing England’s Under-21 side during the previous international break. Jorrel Hato is another absentee, further limiting Alonso’s selection options for the crucial encounter.

Chelsea XI vs Manchester United (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Colwill, Fofana; Neto, Caicedo, Lavia, Palestra; Palmer, Estevao; Rogers

Subs: Sharman-Lowe, Gusto, Subuloye, Chavarria, Barco, Nicoll-Jazuli, Quenda, Welbeck, Emegha