Xabi Alonso demands strong Chelsea display in Manchester United clash

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso says his side must produce a strong performance against Manchester United in the Premier League, while confirming Jordan Henderson will miss the match because of illness.

Speaking to TNT Sports before the game, Alonso said Chelsea had returned to the most important competition for the club.

“We have returned to the Premier League, so this competition is the most important one for us,” he said.

He added: “Today’s match is certainly very important. We need to play well and deliver a strong performance.”

Estevao has been named in the starting line-up, with Alonso explaining that the player was ready to contribute after preparing well in training.

“He is ready. He has prepared well and trained well,” said Alonso. “We need him today, and we hope he enjoys the match and makes an important contribution.”

The Chelsea manager was also asked whether Morgan Rogers could be used as the main striker. Alonso said it was too soon to make a definitive decision, although he acknowledged that possibility remained open.

“It is too early to determine that, and we will see what happens,” he said. “It is an option, but we have other choices.”

Henderson’s absence is not injury-related. Alonso said the midfielder had felt unwell on the previous day and developed a temperature before the match.

“He is ill, not injured,” Alonso said. “He was not feeling well yesterday, and today his temperature went up.”

Chelsea face a demanding test against a Manchester United side Alonso described as a major club with a strong group of players.

“We expect a difficult and intense match against United,” he said. “They are a big team with good players, so we will need to give our best.”

Manchester United are scheduled to face Roma in the Champions League on 03 November 2026. Sunderland are due to play Chelsea in the Premier League on 08 November 2026.