Chelsea will lock horns with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light this Sunday as they look to secure a win on the road in the Premier League. The Blues managed to earn a solid 2-0 win over Manchester United recently, so they would be eager to put in a much-improved showing in midweek.
Xabi Alonso will set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation and is expected to make one tweak to his first team for this game. Hence, Pep Chavarria could get a chance to impress from the start of this clash.
Mike Penders will operate in goal for the Blues after keeping a clean sheet in his last appearance. Wesley Fofana will function alongside Levi Colwill at the centre of the Chelsea backline as they look to keep a good shape at the back during the 90 minutes.
Josh Acheampong will try to catch the eye as the right-back, while Pep Chavarria looks to prove his worth on the other side as the left-back. Both of them will get the license to go forward and express themselves inside the opponent's half.
Malo Gusto will offer cover for the full-back positions on the bench.
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 31: Morgan Rogers of Chelsea during the Premier League 2026/27 match between Chelsea FC and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on October 31, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo will operate as the holding midfielders as they focus on winning the 50-50 battles at the centre of the park and create some decent chances in the final third.
The talented trio of Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer and Estevao will play just ahead of them as part of Chelsea 's attack. All three of them need to be at their best if the Blues are to secure a good result at the Stadium of Light this weekend.
Valentin Barco and Marco Palestra will have to be content with a spot on the bench as they wait for their chance to make an impact in the second 45 minutes if required.
Pedro Neto will spearhead Chelsea's attack up top. He would be eager to put his pace to good use on the offensive end of the field.
Joao Pedro will be sidelined for this game due to injury. However, Emmanuel Emegha will be available for selection on the bench and might come on to influence the game in the final quarter if needed.
