According to a report by Football London on Tuesday October 27, 2026, Chelsea and Liverpool are preparing for their EFL Cup encounter at Anfield with several important players facing fitness problems. Managers Xabi Alonso and Andoni Iraola have provided updates, revealing significant selection challenges ahead of the match.

Chelsea have suffered a major setback following confirmation that Joao Pedro will spend several weeks recovering from a thigh injury. The Brazilian joins several teammates on the sidelines, further limiting Alonso's attacking options.

Cole Palmer will also miss the encounter after receiving a red card against Tottenham Hotspur. His suspension represents another disappointment for Chelsea, who are already struggling to maintain consistency across their recent fixtures.

Reece James, Emi Martinez and Jamie Gittens are also unavailable, leaving Chelsea without five players for the Liverpool meeting. Alonso has not provided definite recovery dates for some injured stars, creating uncertainty about their potential return.

There are, however, encouraging developments concerning Emmanuel Emegha. The striker has recovered sufficiently to rejoin the squad, although his lengthy absence means he could initially begin the contest on the substitutes' bench.

Meanwhile, uncertainty remains surrounding left-back Pep Chavarria, who missed Chelsea's recent matches against Everton and Tottenham. Alonso has yet to provide a clear update regarding the defender's availability for Wednesday's encounter.

Liverpool are also dealing with significant injury concerns, with Szoboszlai among the most notable potential absentees. The midfielder has been influential for the Reds, and his possible absence could considerably affect their performance.

Speaking ahead of the match, Iraola admitted uncertainty about Szoboszlai and Victor Munoz, while expressing greater optimism regarding Florian Wirtz's availability.

“I’m quite optimistic that he will be available,” Iraola said when discussing Wirtz, although he acknowledged that Szoboszlai and Munoz faced greater difficulties returning in time.

Liverpool will also be without Jeremie Frimpong, Hugo Ekitike, Giovanni Leoni and Conor Bradley, adding to their selection problems. Wirtz remains their principal fitness doubt, with a final assessment expected before kickoff.

With both teams missing important players, the encounter could depend heavily on squad depth, tactical flexibility and the contributions of available substitutes. Chelsea and Liverpool must adapt carefully as they battle for progression in the competition.