According to a report by the London Evening Standard on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, Chelsea will be without João Pedro when they travel to Anfield to face Liverpool in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup clash, with the Brazilian forward expected to miss several weeks due to a thigh injury.

Pedro has been ruled out after sustaining the injury that also forced him to miss Chelsea’s recent defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

Head coach Xabi Alonso confirmed the setback but admitted that the exact duration of the striker’s absence remains uncertain. His unavailability presents another selection challenge for Chelsea as they prepare for a demanding schedule.

Morgan Rogers played in a more advanced attacking role against Tottenham as Alonso attempted to compensate for Pedro’s absence. However, the adjustment failed to deliver the desired outcome, and the midfielder is expected to return to his usual attacking midfield position against Liverpool.

Chelsea have received a boost with Danny Welbeck and Estevão both recovering sufficiently to be considered for selection. Alonso has confirmed that the two players are part of the travelling squad, with either potentially starting at Anfield.

Despite his costly error against Tottenham, goalkeeper Mike Penders is expected to keep his place in goal. Alonso remains confident in the youngster, while Emi Martinez continues his recovery from injury.

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

Fitness concerns surrounding Pep Chavarria could also lead to Malo Gusto and Marco Palestra filling the wing-back positions. Wesley Fofana is another player expected to return to the starting lineup after being left out against Tottenham.

Although Emmanuel Emegha has travelled with the squad, he is unlikely to start and may have to wait longer to make his Chelsea debut.

Reece James remains unavailable as he continues recovering from knee surgery, while Jamie Gittens is approaching full fitness. Cole Palmer will also miss the match after receiving a red card against Tottenham.

With Manchester United set to visit Stamford Bridge in the Premier League on Saturday, Alonso must manage his squad carefully. However, the Chelsea manager is expected to name an attacking lineup as he targets a positive result against Liverpool.

Predicted Chelsea XI (3-4-2-1):

Penders; Acheampong, Colwill, Fofana; Gusto, Lavia, Caicedo, Palestra; Rogers, Estevão; Welbeck.

Doubtful: Pep Chavarria.

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

Suspended: Cole Palmer.