Chelsea XI vs Bournemouth: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup and injury latest for Premier League

Xabi Alonso, Chelsea's manager, confirmed five players are fit for their upcoming Premier League match against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, October 10, 2026. These players include Palmer, Joao Pedro, Caicedo, James, and full-back Marco Palestra, all of whom have returned from injuries or international duty. However, Alonso announced that Jamie Gittens will miss the match due to an ankle injury sustained with England Under-21s, leaving him out for several weeks.

The team has not played in 22 days since their defeat at Brentford and aims to break a three-game winless streak against Bournemouth. Alonso's lineup options have been flexible, switching between formations like 3-4-2-1 and 4-2-3-1 depending on the game situation. The predicted starting XI includes goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga or Édouard Mendy (referred to as Martinez), defenders Fofana, Lacroix, Colwill, midfielders Palestra, James, Caicedo, Hato, Rogers, and forwards Palmer, Joao Pedro.

Additionally, Laurence Stewart, Chelsea’s co-sporting director for four years, is departing the club. Alonso expressed gratitude towards Stewart but noted that the departure won't significantly alter their current working structure, highlighting the clear roles of Behdad Eghbali, Jose Feliciano, Sam Jewell, Paul Winstanley, and Joe Shields who will assume his responsibilities.