Alonso provides update on 2 key players ahead of Chelsea vs Brentford clash
By Luke Oluoch, September 18, 2026Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has provided updates regarding the fitness and availability of striker Joao Pedro and Moisés Caicedo ahead of the Blues’ upcoming Premier League fixture.
The Blues make the short trip across west London to take on Brentford in the Premier League’s Friday night kick-off, hoping to get back to winning ways after last week’s 2-2 draw with Hull City at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference on Thursday, September 17, 2026, Alonso revealed that despite recent fitness concerns, including worries over a knee issue for Joao Pedro, both key players have a chance of featuring in the matchday squad.
No one ruled out
Much of the concern was about the Brazilian who withdrew from the Brazil squad for the upcoming international break.
“In terms of injuries and in terms of the squad, we are having the last training session tomorrow, so no one is ruled out for us for Friday,” he explained.
‘So I prefer to be cautious, and we will wait until tomorrow to take the final decision on every player. We will see tomorrow if Joao is ready to play, it is a possibility.”
Caicedo getting closer
The Spaniard also hinted that there was a chance that Caicedo could return to the matchday squad, with the midfielder having been restricted to just a brief appearance against Brighton & Hove Albion so far in the new campaign.
“He is getting closer, and tomorrow we will take the final decision on the team and on the squad that is coming to Brentford,” he said.
‘For Reece, it was just a decision for Tuesday, and we see his development, and tomorrow we will decide.’
The manager also expressed optimism as the Blues seek to maintain their momentum in the league.
Chelsea were held to a 2-2 draw by Hull City in their last league encounter, a week after suffering their first defeat of the season against Champions Arsenal.
The clash at the Gtech Stadium will begin the round five league clash and will kick off at 10:00 pm.