Xabi Alonso has expressed confidence in the strength and depth of his midfield options at Chelsea, despite the club's inability to secure a replacement for Enzo Fernandez, who recently moved to Manchester City for £120 million. Chelsea had tried to sign Lamine Camara from Monaco for £47 million, but the deal collapsed at the last minute, leaving the team without a clear replacement for Fernandez. Alonso emphasized that the squad still has enough talent to compete, even without the Argentine midfielder. Fernandez had been a key player at Chelsea, forming a strong partnership with Moises Caicedo. Caicedo, who is expected to be a central figure under Alonso, is now an injury doubt for the upcoming match against Arsenal. He was forced off shortly after coming on in the recent game against Brighton, adding to the uncertainty in the midfield. Romeo Lavia has started both games this season in midfield and could play a significant role this term. However, he has faced injury issues since joining in 2023, starting just 17 league matches. Valentin Barco, another summer recruit, has been brought in to add energy to the midfield, while Jordan Henderson joined to provide experience and leadership in a young team. Ahead of the match against Arsenal, Alonso highlighted two of the club's most promising academy players, Reggie Watson and Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli, as potential contributors this season. Watson, 16, is the son of former Crystal Palace and Wigan midfielder Ben Watson and has been training with the first team, including participating in the pre-season tour of Australia. He was an unused substitute in the Carabao Cup win over Luton Town in August. Nicoll-Jazuli, also 16, was involved in the summer tour, playing against Tottenham and starting against Juventus in Hong Kong. Alonso praised the variety of qualities and personalities in the midfield, including Barco, Henderson, Lavia, and the young prospects, stating that the team has the right balance and quality to compete throughout the season.