He let them down last time, now Xabi Alonso is relying on Chelsea star vs Arsenal

There are some question marks over the fitness of some of the Chelsea players, with Moises Caicedo and Marco Palestra doubts to start their first games of the season.

Is now our best chance to beat Arsenal at last?

We’ve beat the Gunners just ONCE since 2019…

Xabi Alonso is relying on Pedro Neto for Chelsea vs Arsenal

The absence of the Italian will likely see Pedro Neto handed a start, however in his new-found position of right wing-back, rather than in attack.

This was where he predominantly featured last season, including on the last visit to the Emirates where he was sent off during their 2-1 defeat.

The Portuguese star picked up a yellow card for dissent just minutes before hacking down Gabriel Martinelli in a moment which summed up Chelsea’s season as far as discipline went under Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior.

Now though, in a new position where his defensive skillset is going to be tested far more often, Alonso is relying on Neto to put in a solid performance at both ends of the pitch.

The system lends to wing-backs being able to fly forwards, shown by his goal against Brighton where he popped up in the six-yard box.

He was strongly linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge over the summer, however this didn’t materialise as a role came up in the side that he looks perfectly suited for.

Palestra is expected to provide fierce competition when he is fit again, however for now the responsibility is on Neto to carry out the duties of that role, with him facing the biggest task this season will provide in the form of Arsenal at the Emirates.