Premier League champions Arsenal are set to host Chelsea in a significant early-season London derby today, 6 September 2026. The match, kicking off at 4:30pm BST, could offer an early indication of the title race.
Arsenal will be without Jurrien Timber and William Saliba, who are recovering from injuries. Doubts also surround Cristhian Mosquera, who came off against Aston Villa, and Bruno Guimaraes. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed both players would be checked on Saturday, with Ezri Konsa available to start if Mosquera is unavailable.
For Chelsea, Moises Caicedo faces a late fitness check after lasting only 14 minutes in their previous game against Brighton. The Blues were unable to replace Enzo Fernandez before the transfer deadline, as a deal for Monaco's Lamine Camara reportedly collapsed. Reece James and Valentin Barco could potentially move into midfield if Caicedo is injured.
Chelsea, managed by Xabi Alonso, have not beaten Arsenal in five years. Their attack, featuring Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, and Morgan Rogers, has caught the eye, but the team has also conceded goals and struggled to control games.