According to a report published by the London Evening Standard on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, Chelsea have suffered a major setback with their attacking options as they prepare for a challenging series of fixtures across multiple competitions.

Joao Pedro also missed Chelsea’s weekend clash with Tottenham Hotspur, and his continued absence leaves manager Xabi Alonso with fewer choices in attack. The Spanish tactician has confirmed that the forward is expected to spend several weeks on the sidelines, although the club has not yet provided a definite date for his return.

Alonso previously used Morgan Rogers as a central striker during the defeat to Tottenham, but the experiment failed to deliver the expected results. Rogers is now likely to return to his natural attacking midfield position, prompting changes to Chelsea’s forward line.

Danny Welbeck and Estevao are available after travelling with the squad. Both attackers could be handed starting roles as Chelsea look to book their place in the next round of the competition.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Mike Penders is expected to keep his place despite making a costly mistake against Tottenham. Alonso remains confident in the young goalkeeper, while Emi Martinez continues to recover from his injury.

In midfield, Moises Caicedo is expected to retain his role as Chelsea’s primary defensive midfielder. Romeo Lavia could come into the starting XI in place of Jordan Henderson, who may be given a rest after completing the full 90 minutes in each of Chelsea’s previous three matches.

Pep Chavarria’s fitness remains uncertain, potentially creating an opportunity for Malo Gusto and Marco Palestra to feature as the wing-backs. Wesley Fofana is also expected to return to the starting line-up as Alonso considers defensive changes ahead of the encounter.

Emmanuel Emegha has travelled with the team but is unlikely to start, meaning he may have to wait longer for his Chelsea debut. Reece James remains sidelined following knee surgery, while Jamie Gittens is approaching a return to action. Cole Palmer, meanwhile, is unavailable due to suspension.

Chelsea must carefully manage their squad as they balance their Carabao Cup ambitions with Saturday’s Premier League meeting against Manchester United. Despite the demanding schedule, Alonso is expected to select a strong team for the clash with Liverpool.

Chelsea predicted starting XI (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Colwill, Fofana; Gusto, Lavia, Caicedo, Palestra; Rogers, Estevao; Welbeck.

Doubtful: Pep Chavarria.

Injured: Joao Pedro, Reece James, Emi Martinez and Jamie Gittens.

Suspended: Cole Palmer.