Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso names likely lineup and injury doubts for Leeds Cup tie
Xabi Alonso said Moises Caicedo remains a doubt for the Carabao Cup match against Leeds, while Jordan Henderson still awaits clearance to play.
Chelsea’s head coach Xabi Alonso revealed that Moises Caicedo’s recent injury will keep him out of the Carabao Cup clash with Leeds United, emphasizing that the club will avoid the mistake of returning him too early. Jordan Henderson, still nursing a wrist problem sustained at the World Cup, has not been cleared to feature, with Alonso waiting for medical approval before his first appearance. Another recent acquisition, Marco Palestra, is also sidelined due to injury.
Anticipating a busy schedule, Alonso may rest several regulars before the league fixture against Hull City, potentially starting goalkeeper Mike Penders, wing-back Pep Chavarria, midfielder Valentin Barco and centre-back Levi Colwill, who missed the Arsenal game for fitness reasons. A full squad update is expected during Alonso’s press conference at Cobham. The match is set for 8 pm BST on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Stamford Bridge and will be shown on one outlet Main Event.
