Xabi Alonso shortlisted for October Manager of the Month

Chelsea's October league performance

Chelsea were the top scorers in the Premier League during October, netting nine goals across four matches. The team secured three victories during the month.

Their campaign began after the international break with a 5-1 win against Bournemouth. The side also recorded a 2-0 victory at Everton, marking their first Premier League clean sheet of the season.

Following a defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea concluded the month with a 2-0 win against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge. On 30 October, Alonso confirmed the team news for the Manchester United fixture. Most recently, the club published a training gallery on 4 November in preparation for their upcoming match against Sunderland.

Competition from fellow Premier League managers

Mikel Arteta guided Arsenal to a 100 per cent record throughout October, securing three wins from three matches. These victories against Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, and Everton featured goals from substitutes Bruno Guimaraes and Noni Madueke in the Leeds and Forest games.

Roberto De Zerbi oversaw three consecutive victories for Tottenham Hotspur during the month. This run, which included a 3-1 win against Coventry City, a 2-0 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, and a 2-0 win against Crystal Palace, moved the club from the bottom three into the top half of the table.

Unai Emery remained unbeaten with Aston Villa in October. Villa also registered an away win against Newcastle United.

Fabian Hurzeler led Brighton to three victories in four matches, including a 1-0 away win at Manchester City. This result marked the club's first away win at that venue in 18 attempts. Brighton also achieved a 2-0 win over Sunderland while playing with 10 men and defeated Crystal Palace 5-0, representing their largest victory over those rivals in 70 years.

Marco Rose earned his first win as Bournemouth manager during the month. He oversaw three consecutive victories and clean sheets against Sunderland, Manchester United, and Leeds.

Mikel Arteta's history with the award

Mikel Arteta has secured the Manager of the Month award on eight occasions, with his most recent victory occurring in March.

Voting deadlines and selection criteria

The winner of the Manager of the Month award is decided by a combination of fan votes and the assessment of a panel of football experts. Votes can be cast until midday that same Monday. The winner will be announced at midday on Friday 13 November.

Alonso's previous nomination in August

This nomination marks the second time Xabi Alonso has been shortlisted for the award since his appointment as Chelsea manager. He previously appeared on the shortlist in August following his initial weeks in the role.

Player of the Month nominations

Beyond the managerial shortlist, the Premier League has announced nominations for the Player of the Month award for October. Ezri Konsa and Declan Rice are both included in the list of candidates for this recognition.