Chelsea travel to Arsenal today and there are three things fans should look out for in this big Premier League fixture with this potential top 2 clash heating up in the build up.
Former Arsenal man Emi Martinez has poured some petrol on the London derby fire with fans demanding improvement from the squad, particularly the defence against a strong attack.
So what have we got to keep an eye on this afternoon.
Alonso reactions
Xabi Alonso has already proved himself as a top-level manager, guiding Bayer Leverkusen to their first Bundesliga title and improving Real Madrid during his time in Spain despite ultimately being dismissed. His arrival at Chelsea therefore came with plenty of optimism, and three wins from three have only strengthened that belief. Now, his biggest test so far comes against his close friend and fellow coach, Mikel Arteta.
Alonso will be assessed on how well his starting XI can counter Arsenal’s threats while also finding ways to hurt them. It will also be fascinating to see how he adapts during the game, particularly if Chelsea go behind or take the lead.
The defence
The defence has looked considerably shaky in the first two games, conceding five goals against Fulham and Brighton. Too many chances were also conceded against two teams who have not looked like they will challenge for the top four this term, which makes it an early concern.
While Wesley Fofana and Maxence Lacroix looked strong in the two openers, the biggest worry came from the left side of the defence, with the majority of Brighton’s chances coming down their right. Arsenal’s strongest attacking threat comes from that side, with Bukayo Saka and Ben White interchanging and their fluidity capable of causing problems for even the best defences.
This has been highlighted in the key battles of the game.
Morgan Rogers
Morgan Rogers was one of Arsenal’s main transfer targets over the summer, with multiple advances made before Chelsea came in and stole the march. The attacker will be looking to make Arsenal regret that decision by making a big impact alongside Cole Palmer.
It will be interesting to see what reception he gets, whether it is a normal response for an opposition player or whether the Arsenal fans add some extra spice with a few more boos and added hostility. Rogers’ best response would be to produce a goal and an assist to silence the home crowd.
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