Full Breakdown
Chelsea’s injury update ahead of Leeds Carabao Cup tie
9/9/2026, 10:43:31 AM
Core Event – Who is unavailable and who may return
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso confirmed that the squad will be missing several key players for the Carabao Cup third-round match against Leeds United at Stamford Bridge.
- Moises Caicedo – the 24-year-old Ecuadorian midfielder suffered a calf problem after being forced off in the second half of the win over Brighton. Alonso said the player is still “not ready to go.”
- Marco Palestra – the 21-year-old summer signing picked up a knock in the build-up to the opening league fixture and remains unavailable.
- Jordan Henderson – the 36-year-old England midfielder is sidelined with a wrist injury sustained while on international duty at the World Cup.
- Emmanuel Emegha – the 23-year-old forward is recovering from a hamstring injury incurred during pre-season.
Alonso confirmed that Levi Colwill is fit to start, and that no free-agent signings will be made this season. He indicated that a decision on Caicedo’s possible return for the Premier League match against Hull City will be taken later in the week.
Official Statements & Responses
Regarding midfield depth, Alonso reiterated that the club has not pursued any free-agent targets despite media speculation, stating that the current squad is sufficient.
Alonso indicated that a clearer picture of Caicedo’s fitness will be available “Thursday or Friday,” and that he will provide an update on Henderson and Emegha at that time.
Verbatim Quotes
- “No, no, he's not part of the plans.” — Xabi Alonso, squads chelsea manager
- “He has a problem in his calf,” — Xabi Alonso, squads chelsea manager
- “Especially for him. He came with huge energy, huge desire to enjoy his game in the Premier League.” — Xabi Alonso, squads chelsea manager
- “Potentially, yes, but we will have to wait. Thursday or Friday we will know more.” — Xabi Alonso, squads chelsea manager
- “We are expecting a very intense game, very tough, with lots of duels, but we need to cope with that and find solutions.” — Xabi Alonso, squads chelsea manager
- “No, not yet. Still not ready to go,” — Xabi Alonso, squads chelsea manager
Data & Statistics
- Four first-team players confirmed unavailable for the Leeds match.
- One defender (Levi Colwill) confirmed fit to start.
What’s Next
- Potential return for Caicedo – Alonso said a decision on whether the midfielder can feature against Hull City will be made “Thursday or Friday.” The Premier League fixture is scheduled for September 12, 2026.
- Carabao Cup final – The competition’s final is slated for 21 March 2027 at Wembley Stadium, with the winner earning a place in the next season’s UEFA Conference League play-offs.
These updates illustrate the injury challenges Chelsea faces as they aim to progress in the Carabao Cup while managing player fitness ahead of upcoming league commitments.
