Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso says the club must assess Moises Caicedo after the midfielder was forced off shortly after coming on during Sunday’s 4-3 win over Brighton in the second round of the Premier League.
Caicedo, who represents Ecuador, was introduced after half-time but was unable to complete his appearance after suffering a knock. His early departure prompted concern, particularly because the player had experienced a similar issue previously.
Speaking after the match, Alonso said: “We hope it is not a new injury and that it is not more serious than the previous one.”
The Chelsea manager added: “He was cautious and decided to stop. He was not feeling his best, but we have to assess his condition.”
Alonso repeated that the incident did not appear to represent a fresh problem, saying: “It was no more than the previous one. He was cautious. He was not feeling his best. It was not something new.”
The Spaniard’s comments will nevertheless leave Chelsea waiting for a clearer assessment of Caicedo’s fitness after his short outing. The Ecuadorian midfielder had only been on the pitch for a brief period before deciding he could not continue.
While Caicedo’s condition was the main concern to emerge from the match, Alonso was also encouraged by the first appearance of new goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Martinez made his debut for Chelsea in the victory over Brighton, and Alonso praised the immediate influence of the Argentina international.
“I am happy with his first impact. He has this charisma and aura that help him connect with the rest of the team,” said Alonso.
The Chelsea manager revealed that he had spoken to Martinez before the game and found the goalkeeper confident about his readiness.
“I spoke with him yesterday and we discussed the match, and he felt ready. I do not need to tell him many things for him to perform well. He wanted to keep a clean sheet, but I was happy with his first impact,” Alonso said.
Martinez’s debut came as Chelsea secured a seven-goal match, although the goalkeeper was unable to achieve the clean sheet he had hoped for. Alonso nevertheless appeared satisfied with the way the new arrival settled into the team during his first outing.
The manager was also asked about Pedro Neto’s future at Chelsea beyond the end of the 2026 summer transfer window. Alonso declined to guarantee that the Portugal international would remain at the club.
“In football, I do not guarantee anything. I was happy with Pedro’s performance. He played with a lot of energy. He will be very important this season,” Alonso said.
Neto has recently been linked with a move to both Manchester City and Al-Hilal, with the Saudi Arabian club reported to have shown particular interest in signing him. Despite refusing to make a firm commitment over the winger’s future, Alonso underlined his belief that Neto will have an important role to play for Chelsea during the campaign.
