Chelsea will be without Joao Pedro for their Carabao Cup encounter against Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday after the Brazilian forward sustained a thigh injury that is expected to keep him out for several weeks, according to a report by the London Evening Standard on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.

The Blues will be without their key attacking player not only for this weekend’s meeting with Tottenham but also for upcoming matches. Xabi Alonso confirmed that Pedro would be sidelined for several weeks, although he admitted that it was difficult to determine the exact length of his absence.

Alonso attempted to use Morgan Rogers as his main attacking threat against Tottenham, but the plan did not work as expected. The Englishman is now expected to return to his regular attacking midfield position.

Danny Welbeck and Estevao are both fit and have been included in the squad, with Alonso confirming their availability. Both players could feature in the starting lineup.

Goalkeeper Mike Penders is expected to retain his place despite making a costly mistake against Tottenham, as Alonso continues to show faith in the young shot-stopper. Emi Martinez remains unavailable through injury.

Moises Caicedo is expected to start in midfield, while Romeo Lavia could replace Jordan Henderson. The experienced midfielder may be rested after completing the full 90 minutes in each of Chelsea’s last three matches.

With Pep Chavarria’s fitness still uncertain, Malo Gusto and Marco Palestra are likely to occupy the wing-back positions. Wesley Fofana could also return to the starting lineup after being rested by Alonso.

Emmanuel Emegha has been included in the squad but is unlikely to start, meaning he may have to wait longer for his debut. Reece James remains sidelined following knee surgery, while Jamie Gittens is nearing a return to action.

Chelsea must also manage their players carefully ahead of Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Manchester United. Despite the need for rotation, Alonso is expected to select an attacking lineup against Liverpool.

Predicted 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.