Arsenal’s clash with Chelsea on Sunday has added an extra layer of intrigue with star Blues midfielder Moises Caicedo in doubt as his inclusion is dependent on the outcome of Chelsea’s final training session before Xavi Alonso confirms his squad for the match.
Caicedo injured before Arsenal game
The Ecuadorian midfielder picked up the injury against Brighton last weekend. He came on as a substitute for Romeo Lavia but was substituted after just 13 minutes and was left frustrated as he headed straight into the tunnel.
Alonso later admitted the problem appeared to be an exacerbation of previous problems for the former Brighton man. But Alonso was careful not to say much when asked about it at Friday’s pre-race press conference. While he kept his words smart, he simply said Chelsea would check on his condition in the final game before deciding whether he would head to north London.
Alonso spoke out on Caicedo’s injury ahead of game against Arsenal: “We don’t need to worry about what happened. We will make a final decision tomorrow.”
Arsenal advantage?
It would be natural for Arsenal to want to keep a keen eye on the progression of his injury, given that he has been arguably Chelsea’s most important midfielder in recent seasons.
With Enzo Fernandez leaving for Manchester City, Alonso is now left with just four recognized midfielders: Caicedo, Lavia, Valentin Barco and Jordan Henderson. Even he was quick to insist that no matter who was missing, there was still enough quality and competition in his squad that being without Moises would be a huge blow for them.
Arteta’s side are well aware of how much of an impact the midfield battle at the Emirates Stadium can have on the physicality of Chelsea’s side (especially given the way the Blues have been practicing their rugby style against the Gunners’ physicality). If Caicedo is not included in Chelsea’s squad, his energy and range on the pitch will be a considerable loss.
Chelsea will play rugby against Arsenal.
The hallmark of Xabi Alonso’s technique is the ability of his equipment to evolve precisely into Domingo’s classic intensity. pic.twitter.com/z0Qj8m5Gbo— Luis Carlos Largo (@LARGOESPN) September 4, 2026
Losing him and Fernandez’s exit would leave Alonso heavily reliant on Henderson’s experience and Lavia’s legs against a confident title-winning side.
Nothing will be confirmed until Chelsea’s final game and Alonso has made it clear he has no intention of publicly exaggerating the situation before then.
For Gunas, though, it’s even more worthwhile than usual to keep an eye on Chelsea’s team news ahead of kick-off this week, given how much rest a player needs during late fitness calls.