The Aporia
The Aporia
Smith, D. (2026, September 4). Xabi Alonso issues Reece James prediction as Chelsea midfield options assessed after Enzo Fernandez exit. Evening Standard. https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/alonso-james-chelsea-fc-b1295816.html
Smith, Dom. “Xabi Alonso issues Reece James prediction as Chelsea midfield options assessed after Enzo Fernandez exit.” Evening Standard, 4 Sept. 2026, https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/alonso-james-chelsea-fc-b1295816.html.
Smith, Dom. “Xabi Alonso issues Reece James prediction as Chelsea midfield options assessed after Enzo Fernandez exit.” Evening Standard, September 4, 2026. https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/alonso-james-chelsea-fc-b1295816.html.
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Arsenal have kept two clean sheets in their opening two matches of the season, showcasing their impressive strength in defence. In contrast, Chelsea won 4-3 against Brighton last time out, displaying an attacking prowess that could prove a challenge for Arsenal.
Chelsea's new-look front three of Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer, and Joao Pedro have been frightening in attack, with Rogers having already opened his account in his new colours on his league debut against Fulham. This match will be a key test for Arsenal's defence.
Reece James could start in midfield for Chelsea, where he is expected to deploy him this season, and his importance in that position is due to grow after Enzo Fernandez departed for Manchester City and the transfer of Lamine Camara collapsed. Jordan Henderson has not yet played for his new club due to a wrist injury suffered at the World Cup.
This match will be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League, with coverage set to start at 4pm BST ahead of the 4.30pm BST kick off. Sky subscribers can stream the match live on the Sky Go app and website.
Arsenal's predicted XI vs Chelsea (3-4-2-1): Ramsdale; Tomiyasu, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Saka, Partey, Xhaka, Trossard; Martinelli, Nketiah
Chelsea predicted XI vs Arsenal: Martinez; Fofana, Lacroix, Colwill; Neto, Lavia, James, Hato; Rogers, Palmer; Joao Pedro
