According to a report by Metro on Thursday October 29, 2026, Chelsea have suffered another significant injury setback ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Manchester United, with defender Maxence Lacroix emerging as a major doubt after sustaining a hamstring injury against Liverpool.

The French centre-back has become an important figure under Xabi Alonso since arriving from Crystal Palace during the summer transfer window, featuring prominently in Chelsea’s domestic campaign and establishing himself as a regular starter.

Lacroix has played the entire ninety minutes in seven of Chelsea’s eight Premier League matches this season, accumulating more playing time than any other squad member. His potential absence would represent a considerable defensive setback.

The defender also started every Carabao Cup fixture before Wednesday’s quarter-final encounter against Liverpool. However, his evening ended prematurely when he suffered an apparent hamstring problem shortly before halftime at Anfield.

Chelsea eventually suffered a painful penalty shootout elimination, losing 7-6 against Liverpool. Lacroix sustained his injury while tracking Cody Gakpo, leaving the pitch cautiously before Levi Colwill entered as his replacement.

Alonso confirmed after the match that Chelsea would need several days to assess the defender’s condition. The manager acknowledged concerns surrounding Lacroix’s hamstring but admitted that determining the injury’s severity remained premature.

Chelsea face Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, leaving Alonso with limited preparation time to address his defensive concerns. Michael Carrick remains in charge of United following a turbulent week at the club.

The Blues are already missing Joao Pedro, who sustained a thigh injury before their Premier League defeat against Tottenham last weekend. His continued absence further reduces Chelsea’s available attacking options ahead of this important encounter.

Captain Reece James is another notable absentee, adding to Alonso’s selection difficulties. Chelsea must carefully manage their remaining defensive resources while awaiting further medical assessments regarding Lacroix’s condition and his possible availability for Saturday’s match.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will also miss the Manchester United fixture as he continues recovering from surgery following a fractured jaw. His absence represents another challenge for Chelsea as they prepare for their upcoming league assignment.

Cole Palmer, however, is expected to return after missing Wednesday’s Liverpool encounter through suspension. The attacking midfielder served his punishment following his red card against Tottenham and will be available against Manchester United.