According to a report by Evening Standard on Thursday, October 29, 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is considering his selection options ahead of Saturday's important Premier League meeting with Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.

The London side will face Michael Carrick's team on October 31, hoping to return to winning ways and strengthen their position in the Premier League standings.

Chelsea approach the fixture after suffering a frustrating defeat against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup. The Blues were eliminated following a dramatic penalty shootout at Anfield, losing 6-5 after the encounter ended 1-1 in regulation time.

With several players struggling with fitness concerns, Alonso may introduce changes to his starting eleven as he attempts to secure a positive result against Manchester United.

The Chelsea manager could choose a 3-4-2-1 tactical system, which would provide additional defensive protection while allowing his attacking players to create opportunities.

Goalkeeper: Mike Penders

Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders is among the candidates to start against Manchester United, particularly because Emiliano Martinez is currently dealing with an injury problem.

Penders could be given another opportunity to demonstrate his abilities against a United attack determined to cause problems for Chelsea's defence.

Defenders: Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill

Chelsea could field Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill as their three central defenders.

Acheampong may be positioned on the right, with Colwill taking responsibility for the left side of the defensive unit.

Lacroix could occupy the middle position if he is declared fit before Saturday's encounter.

However, uncertainty surrounding his physical condition could force Alonso to reconsider his defensive arrangements.

Midfielders: Pedro Neto, Moises Caicedo, Jordan Henderson and Jorrel Hato

Alonso could select a four-man midfield featuring Pedro Neto, Moises Caicedo, Jordan Henderson and Jorrel Hato.

Neto may be deployed in an advanced wing-back role on the right, using his pace to support Chelsea's attacking movements.

Hato could perform similar responsibilities on the left while also helping the defenders whenever Manchester United move forward.

In central midfield, Caicedo and Henderson could combine their different qualities to provide balance.

Caicedo would be responsible for disrupting opposition attacks and recovering possession, while Henderson could contribute his experience and passing ability.

Attacking Midfielders: Cole Palmer and Geovany Quenda

Cole Palmer could return to Chelsea's starting eleven after missing the Carabao Cup clash against Liverpool through suspension.

His availability would offer Alonso another creative option in the final third.

Palmer could partner Geovany Quenda in the attacking midfield positions, with both players operating behind the main striker.

Their movement, passing and ability to exploit defensive spaces could become important factors against Manchester United.

Striker: Morgan Rogers

Morgan Rogers is another player who could feature prominently in Alonso's attacking plans.

With João Pedro reportedly facing several weeks on the sidelines because of a thigh injury, Chelsea may need to adjust their options in the centre-forward position.

Rogers could be deployed as the team's leading attacker, although Danny Welbeck and Emmanuel Emegha remain possible alternatives.

His ability to move between defenders and participate in attacking combinations could provide Chelsea with another dimension going forward.

Chelsea's Predicted Starting Lineup (3-4-2-1)

Mike Penders could start in goal, with Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill forming the defensive trio.

Pedro Neto, Moises Caicedo, Jordan Henderson and Jorrel Hato could occupy the four midfield positions.

Cole Palmer and Geovany Quenda may operate behind Morgan Rogers, who could lead the attack.

Saturday's encounter represents an opportunity for Chelsea to respond positively to their recent cup disappointment.

Manchester United will also be determined to improve their performances under Michael Carrick, making the Stamford Bridge contest particularly significant for both teams.

Nevertheless, Alonso's final starting eleven could change depending on injury assessments, player availability and the recovery of those involved in the demanding midweek fixture against Liverpool.