Chelsea make cautious changes for Arsenal clash as Colwill and Caicedo miss out

Xabi Alonso has explained the absence of Moises Caicedo and the decision to leave Levi Colwill on the bench for Chelsea’s Premier League meeting with Arsenal at Emirates Stadium.

Chelsea manager Alonso made two notable changes to his starting line-up for the third round of the competition. Colwill, who had started the club’s opening two matches, was named among the substitutes, while Caicedo was left out of the matchday squad altogether.

The decision came shortly before kick-off, with Alonso saying Colwill had experienced a minor issue during the week.

“Colwill is not in the starting line-up because he had some minor discomfort during the week,” Alonso told Sky Sports.

Caicedo’s omission was also a precautionary measure, rather than an indication that he was ruled out of the match because of a serious injury.

“He was close to playing. But there is no point in taking a risk at this moment. We have to be careful,” Alonso said, according to the BBC.

Chelsea arrived at Emirates Stadium with a perfect record from their first two Premier League fixtures under Alonso. They opened the campaign with a 3-2 victory over Fulham before beating Brighton 4-3.

Arsenal also began the season with two wins. Mikel Arteta’s side defeated Coventry City 3-0 in their opening match and followed that result with a 1-0 victory against Aston Villa.

The fixture therefore brought together two teams who had both won their opening matches, although Alonso was forced to adjust his selection after Colwill’s fitness concern and Caicedo’s late decision not to take the risk.

Alonso was also asked about his friendship with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta before the game. The pair know each other well, but the Chelsea boss made it clear that their relationship would be put aside once the match began.

“I am looking forward to seeing him. But as soon as the referee blows the whistle, the game will start,” Alonso said.

Colwill had been selected from the beginning in each of Chelsea’s first two league matches, making his presence among the substitutes one of the key changes in the Blues’ line-up. Caicedo, meanwhile, was not available for selection after Alonso opted for caution over his involvement.

The match at Emirates Stadium was the third Premier League game of the season for both Chelsea and Arsenal, with each club seeking to maintain its unbeaten start.