Arsenal host Chelsea in an early London derby in the Premier League that could determine whether we have a title race this season.
Champions Arsenal flexed their muscles as they ground out an impressive win at Aston Villa on Monday and although a big-name attacking signing eluded them in the transfer window, Mikel Arteta’s side have the strength and depth to defend their title.
Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea have caught the eye, however, with Cole Palmer finding some early form and creating a formidable front three with Joao Pedro and Morgan Rogers that could fire the Blues towards a potential title challenge.
Chelsea have conceded goals at the other end, however, and have struggled to control games so far under Alonso, so a visit to champions Arsenal – who they have not beaten in five years – sets up a fascinating test of their credentials.
Follow updates from Arsenal v Chelsea with our live blog below:
Old friends Arteta and Alonso rekindle Premier League rivalry as Arsenal meet Chelsea
Mikel Arteta and Xabi Alonso go back a long way, two Basque boys now reunited as managers of Premier League rivals in London. Lawrence Ostlere explores the pair’s relationship.
Old friends Arteta and Alonso rekindle rivalry as Arsenal meet Chelsea
Arteta and Alonso grew up living just minutes apart in San Sebastian and played for the same local team. On Sunday they clash as managers of two rival title contendersHarry Latham-Coyle6 September 2026 13:15
Early Arsenal vs Chelsea team news
Jurrien Timber and William Saliba remain absent for the hosts as they recover from injuries, while there are doubts over Cristhian Mosquera, who came off against Villa, and Bruno Guimaraes. Mikel Arteta confirmed both players will be checked on Saturday but said Ezri Konsa is available to start if Mosquera cannot.
Moises Caicedo faces a late fitness check after he lasted just 14 minutes against Brighton last weekend. Chelsea were unable to replace Enzo Fernandez before the deadline closed, with a deal for Monaco’s Lamine Camara collapsing at the 11th hour. Reece James and Valentin Barco could shift into midfield if Caicedo is injured.
Flo Clifford6 September 2026 13:05
Arsenal vs Chelsea LIVE
Arsenal and Chelsea collide in a potentially huge early-season meeting of London clubs each possessing title aspirations. Can the upstart visitors make a statement of intent against the defending champions?
Kick off is at 4.30pm BST.
Harry Latham-Coyle6 September 2026 10:31