Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso is reportedly considering six alterations to his starting line-up ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup fourth-round meeting with Liverpool at Anfield, with Brazilian youngster Estevao Willian potentially playing a more prominent attacking role because of Cole Palmer’s absence.

Football London reported on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, that Alonso intends to make changes to his team after the Blues suffered a disappointing 2-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are scheduled to visit Liverpool on Wednesday, October 28, before facing Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday.

Mike Penders is likely to start between the posts after Alonso indicated that the young Belgian goalkeeper would be involved in the Liverpool encounter. Despite enduring a challenging Premier League debut against Tottenham, during which he scored an own goal after mishandling a corner situation, Penders could be trusted with another opportunity to demonstrate his ability.

Wesley Fofana is another player who could return to the starting line-up, with Josh Acheampong potentially dropping to the bench. Alonso may choose to rest the teenager to ensure he remains fresh for Saturday’s Premier League fixture.

If selected, Fofana is expected to partner Levi Colwill and Maxence Lacroix in Chelsea’s three-man defence.

At wing-back, Marco Palestra and Malo Gusto are possible starters. Nevertheless, the club’s current injury problems and questions surrounding the fitness of certain players could force Alonso to reconsider his options before kick-off.

Valentin Barco and Romeo Lavia are tipped to occupy the central midfield positions, with Alonso potentially giving Moises Caicedo additional time to recover completely from his recent injury. Jordan Henderson could also be considered for a place in midfield.

Further forward, Chelsea will need to find effective solutions in Palmer’s absence. The England international is unavailable after being sent off in Saturday’s defeat to Tottenham, leaving Alonso with another selection challenge ahead of the trip to Anfield.

His suspension could open the door for Estevao Willian to assume greater responsibility in the attacking third. The young Brazilian will be keen to make the most of the opportunity by displaying his creativity and offensive quality as he seeks to establish himself as a regular member of Alonso’s starting team.

Geovany Quenda is also in contention to feature in attack, while Danny Welbeck is expected to be selected as Chelsea’s centre-forward.

Chelsea’s predicted starting XI against Liverpool:

Mike Penders; Levi Colwill, Maxence Lacroix, Wesley Fofana; Marco Palestra, Valentin Barco, Romeo Lavia, Malo Gusto; Geovany Quenda, Estevao Willian; Danny Welbeck.