RismadarVoice Reporters
October 24, 2026
Chelsea have been dealt an unexpected setback ahead of their Premier League encounter with Tottenham Hotspur after Brazilian forward João Pedro was omitted from the matchday squad.
The striker’s absence emerged when the confirmed team sheets were released ahead of Saturday’s London derby at Stamford Bridge, raising concerns about his fitness.
Pedro had completed the full 90 minutes during Chelsea’s previous league fixture against Everton and was reportedly involved in training as recently as Friday.
However, the 24-year-old was neither included in the starting lineup nor named among the substitutes for Tottenham’s visit.
Chelsea have yet to provide an official explanation for his omission, leaving uncertainty over whether the decision relates to an injury, illness or another fitness concern.
Manager Xabi Alonso responded to the absence by handing Portuguese youngster Geovany Quenda his first Premier League start.
Quenda was selected alongside Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer in Chelsea’s attacking formation, presenting the young forward with an opportunity to make an impression in a high-profile London derby.
Experienced striker Danny Welbeck was included among the substitutes, offering Alonso another attacking option during the encounter.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Emegha remained unavailable after experiencing fitness difficulties that have delayed his return to competitive action.
Chelsea also made a change in goal, with Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders selected to start in place of Emiliano Martínez.
Martínez is recovering from a fractured jaw sustained during Chelsea’s recent victory over Everton, an injury that required surgery.
Penders, who replaced the Argentine during that match, was handed his first Premier League start against Tottenham.
The goalkeeper’s selection comes as Chelsea continue to manage several injury concerns, including the absence of captain Reece James.
Pedro’s omission is particularly significant given his role in Chelsea’s attacking setup and his involvement in the club’s recent league performances.
The Brazilian has been among the players regularly selected in Alonso’s preferred attacking combination alongside Palmer and Rogers.
Chelsea entered the fixture seeking to build on consecutive Premier League victories over Bournemouth and Everton.
Further information from Alonso or Chelsea’s medical staff will be needed to establish the reason for Pedro’s absence and whether he faces any period on the sidelines.
