According to a report by Evening Standard on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Chelsea could receive a boost ahead of their London derby against Tottenham on October 24, with Pep Chavarria potentially returning to the squad. However, Emi Martinez and Reece James are expected to miss the fixture as they continue recovering from their respective injuries.

Martinez is facing several weeks out, while James could be unavailable for approximately three months following surgery.

The Argentine goalkeeper sustained a broken jaw during Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Everton after colliding with Jarrad Branthwaite. He was stretchered off the pitch before undergoing surgery, later confirming that the procedure had been successful.

Martinez is expected to return in November. Until then, manager Xabi Alonso will have to rely on his other goalkeeping options to cover for the injured shot-stopper.

Chavarria, meanwhile, missed the Everton match after picking up an injury during training on the eve of the game. Alonso explained that the club was still examining the problem and had yet to establish the full extent of the injury.

The wing-back could recover in time for Saturday’s home encounter with Tottenham, although Chelsea will need to assess his fitness before deciding whether he is ready to feature.

James faces a more prolonged spell on the sidelines after suffering a knee injury in training. The Chelsea captain had previously dealt with a hamstring problem before requiring surgery for his latest setback.

The defender is expected to be out for around three months, potentially ruling him out until January. His absence represents a significant loss for Alonso, given his ability to contribute both at right-back and in midfield.

Chelsea must now manage their injury concerns carefully as they enter a demanding run of fixtures. Chavarria’s potential return would provide a welcome boost ahead of the Tottenham clash, but the extended absences of Martinez and James remain major concerns.

Alonso will be hoping to find effective solutions within his squad as Chelsea prepare for the derby and look to maintain their competitiveness in the weeks ahead.