According to a report by Evening Standard on Thursday, October 29, 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso could make several important changes to his starting lineup when the Blues face Manchester United in Saturday's Premier League encounter at Stamford Bridge.

One of the biggest developments ahead of the highly anticipated fixture is the return of Chelsea superstar Cole Palmer, who is available for selection after serving his one-match suspension.

The England international was dismissed during Chelsea's disappointing 2-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur after receiving two yellow cards. However, Palmer completed his suspension during Wednesday's Carabao Cup clash against Liverpool, meaning he can return against Manchester United.

His availability comes at an important moment for Chelsea, who are hoping to recover from their recent disappointing results and strengthen their position in the Premier League standings.

Alonso could adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation against Michael Carrick's Manchester United, allowing Palmer to operate in his preferred attacking midfield position.

Goalkeeper: Mike Penders

Mike Penders could continue as Chelsea's starting goalkeeper following the injury suffered by Emiliano Martinez.

The young goalkeeper has been handed opportunities in recent matches and could retain his place as Martinez continues recovering from a fractured jaw.

Defenders: Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill and Jorrel Hato

Alonso could select a four-man defensive unit to provide stability against Manchester United's attacking threats.

Malo Gusto could occupy the right-back position, although his fitness will need to be assessed after experiencing cramps during Chelsea's midweek encounter against Liverpool.

Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill could form the central defensive partnership, while Jorrel Hato may operate at left-back.

The possible absence of Maxence Lacroix could influence Alonso's defensive selection after the French defender suffered a suspected hamstring injury against Liverpool.

Defensive Midfielders: Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson

Moises Caicedo could partner Jordan Henderson in central midfield, providing Chelsea with a combination of defensive strength and experience.

Caicedo's ability to intercept passes and regain possession could be crucial against Manchester United's midfielders.

However, the Ecuadorian's fitness will need to be monitored after he experienced discomfort during Wednesday's Carabao Cup match.

Henderson could provide additional defensive protection while helping Chelsea maintain possession and control the tempo of the encounter.

Attacking Midfielders: Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers

Cole Palmer could return directly to Chelsea's starting lineup and operate as the central attacking midfielder.

The England international possesses excellent passing ability, creativity and goalscoring instincts, making him one of Chelsea's most dangerous attacking players.

His return could provide Alonso with greater flexibility in the final third, particularly against a Manchester United side that has struggled defensively this season.

Pedro Neto could feature on the right wing, where his speed and ability to deliver dangerous crosses could trouble United's defenders.

Morgan Rogers could occupy the left attacking position, using his movement and physical strength to create opportunities for his teammates.

Striker: Danny Welbeck

Danny Welbeck could lead Chelsea's attack against his former club, Manchester United.

The experienced striker could be selected following the injury suffered by João Pedro, who is expected to remain unavailable for several weeks because of a thigh problem.

Welbeck's experience, intelligent positioning and ability to hold up possession could provide Chelsea with another attacking option.

His inclusion would also allow Morgan Rogers to operate in a wider position rather than playing as a makeshift centre-forward.

Chelsea's Possible Starting XI Against Manchester United (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: Mike Penders.

Defenders: Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill and Jorrel Hato.

Midfielders: Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson.

Attacking Midfielders: Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers.

Striker: Danny Welbeck.

Chelsea will enter Saturday's encounter hoping to return to winning ways after suffering a 2-0 Premier League defeat against Tottenham and subsequently losing to Liverpool on penalties in the Carabao Cup.

Manchester United will also be desperate for a positive result after their embarrassing 3-0 home defeat against Bournemouth increased the pressure on manager Michael Carrick.

With Palmer available again, Chelsea could have a significant advantage in terms of creativity and attacking movement.

However, Alonso must carefully assess the fitness of several players before confirming his starting lineup.

The Blues will be hoping that Palmer's return provides the inspiration needed to overcome Manchester United and secure three valuable Premier League points in front of their home supporters.

The predicted lineup remains subject to changes before Saturday's encounter.