Chelsea FC players dominate a statistically-selected combined XI with Arsenal after the opening weeks of the Premier League season. According to an analysis by Daily Mail Sport this week, seven Blues stars make the cut compared to four from their London rivals, reflecting Chelsea's perfect start under manager Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea currently sit fourth in the Premier League standings with six points from two wins, scoring seven goals but conceding five. They are three points behind leaders Manchester City in the early title race. Their next challenge is a home fixture against second-placed Hull City on September 12, a key match in their fixtures schedule.
Which players made the combined team?
The selection is based on performances across the first two Premier League matches for both clubs, who each have a perfect record. In goal, new Chelsea signing Emiliano Martinez gets the nod. Martinez, who joined from Aston Villa less than a week before the report, conceded three on his debut but was still chosen ahead of Arsenal's David Raya, who has kept two clean sheets. "Gets the nod ahead of David Raya in between the sticks," the report noted of Martinez's inclusion.
Chelsea's defensive selections include 20-year-old centre-back Josh Acheampong and £52 million signing Maxence Lacroix. Acheampong has featured in both league games and the Carabao Cup win over Jack Wilshere's Luton Town, winning four tackles and six ground duels against Fulham. Lacroix, who has made 12 clearances already, was described as having "been impressive at the heart of Chelsea's defence so far this season." They are joined by Arsenal's Ben White, who has an assist, and Riccardo Calafiori. The 6ft 2in Italian left-back won Man of the Match against Aston Villa, completing 19 of 21 passes and providing an assist.
How does the midfield and attack shape up?
The midfield sees a split, with Chelsea's Cole Palmer and Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard selected. Palmer, 24, has battled a groin injury but has started the season brightly. He has taken six shots, scoring two goals and providing one assist, contributing to Chelsea's status as the league's highest scorers so far. Odegaard scored in the season opener against Coventry.
The attack, however, is an all-Chelsea affair, led by Bukayo Saka. Ironically, Saka is Arsenal's longest-serving player but makes this combined XI on the right wing. He has scored two goals in two games, including the winner against Aston Villa, and has had 12 touches in the opposition box. He is joined by other Chelsea forwards, underscoring their offensive output of seven goals scored this term.
What does this say about Chelsea's early form?
The heavy Chelsea representation points to a strong collective start under Xabi Alonso, who faces Mikel Arteta in the opposing dugout. The Blues' ability to integrate new signings like Martinez and Lacroix quickly has been vital. Their attacking numbers are particularly strong, though the five goals conceded indicate defensive areas to address. The team will need to manage without currently sidelined players like Jordan Henderson and Marco Palestra, whose status can be tracked on the club's injuries page.
While a statistical snapshot after just two games has clear limitations, it highlights the immediate impact of Chelsea's summer business and system. The focus now shifts to maintaining this form against a high-flying Hull City side at Stamford Bridge next weekend, a fixture that will test this early-season momentum.
