Xabi Alonso takes charge of his first competitive match as Chelsea manager away at Craven Cottage against Fulham. With Wesley Fofana suspended, captain Reece James is projected to slot into the back three, while new marquee signing Morgan Rogers starts in an attacking midfield role behind in-form striker João Pedro.
Predicted Starting XI
| Position | Player | Key Tactical Role |
| GK | Robert Sánchez | Retains the starting spot between the posts under Alonso. |
| CB | Reece James | Drops into the right side of the back three due to Fofana’s suspension. |
| CB | Maxence Lacroix | Anchor of the defense following his summer move. |
| CB | Levi Colwill | Provides left-footed build-up quality from the back. |
| RWB | Pedro Neto | Provides pace and width down the right flank. |
| CM | Moisés Caicedo | Covers central ground and anchors the midfield pivot. |
| CM | Enzo Fernández (or Roméo Lavia) | Deep-lying playmaker connecting defense to attack. |
| LWB | Marco Palestra | High-flying wing-back adding energy on the left. |
| RF | Cole Palmer | Primary creative hub operating in the right half-space. |
| LF | Morgan Rogers | Debuting inside-forward given freedom to roam. |
| ST | João Pedro | Spearheads the attack after netting 7 goals in pre-season. |
Team News & Selection Notes
- Suspensions: Wesley Fofana serves a carry-over suspension from last season.
- Absentees: Jordan Henderson and Emmanuel Emegha remain sidelined.
- Midfield Choice: Alonso faces a choice between starting Enzo Fernández alongside Moisés Caicedo or deploying Roméo Lavia for extra defensive steel.
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