According to a report by London Evening Standard on Saturday October 24, 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has made several decisions for the Premier League clash against Tottenham, with Mike Penders making his first league start and Joao Pedro missing out unexpectedly.

Geovany Quenda has been handed a surprise opportunity in attack as the Blues prepare to face their London rivals at Stamford Bridge.

Penders will start in goal following Emi Martinez’s injury during Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Everton last weekend. The 21-year-old made history by becoming the club’s youngest-ever Premier League goalkeeper when he replaced the injured Argentine in that match.

Martinez is recovering from jaw surgery after suffering a serious head collision against Everton. Chelsea are confident that Penders can handle the responsibility while their first-choice goalkeeper continues his recovery.

The Blues have also maintained their midfield partnership of Jordan Henderson and Moises Caicedo. The pair have helped Chelsea win their last two Premier League matches by an aggregate score of 7-1 and will be expected to provide stability against Tottenham.

Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers retain their places in the attacking setup, but Joao Pedro’s absence means Quenda comes into the starting eleven. Pedro Neto will continue at right wing-back after scoring both goals in the victory over Everton.

Josh Acheampong has also been selected in defence, with Alonso showing confidence in the Cobham academy graduate. The young defender will start alongside Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill, while Wesley Fofana begins the match on the bench.

Malo Gusto is available again after recovering from illness and has been named among the substitutes. However, Pep Chavarria remains unavailable after picking up a minor injury during training before the Everton game.

Chelsea captain Reece James is still recovering from knee surgery and is not expected to return until January. Jamie Gittens also remains sidelined with an ankle injury, while Emmanuel Emegha has suffered a training setback that delays his competitive debut for the club.

Chelsea Confirmed Starting Lineup: Penders; Acheampong, Lacroix, Colwill; Neto, Henderson, Caicedo, Hato; Palmer, Quenda, Rogers.