According to a report by London Evening Standard on Monday October 26, 2026, Chelsea are dealing with several injury concerns ahead of their Carabao Cup clash against Liverpool, with manager Xabi Alonso facing selection difficulties following Saturday's disappointing 2-0 defeat against Tottenham at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues had enjoyed consecutive victories after the international break, but their momentum suffered a setback against Tottenham. Joao Pedro, Emi Martinez, Reece James, Jamie Gittens and Emmanuel Emegha remain unavailable.

Chelsea's problems have increased following Cole Palmer's late dismissal against Tottenham. The midfielder's suspension adds another concern for Alonso as Chelsea prepare for demanding fixtures against Liverpool and Manchester United.

Joao Pedro

The Brazilian forward unexpectedly missed Chelsea's defeat against Tottenham after suffering an injury during training at Cobham on Friday. Alonso revealed that fluid buildup had prevented immediate scans, delaying a clearer diagnosis.

Chelsea were expected to conduct further examinations to establish the severity of the problem and determine his recovery period. Pedro has already experienced knee difficulties this season, previously missing the Brentford defeat.

Potential return date: Unknown, pending medical assessment.

Emi Martinez

The goalkeeper fractured his jaw during an accidental collision against Everton and required surgery. He was taken to hospital after receiving treatment on the pitch, leaving deputy goalkeeper Mike Penders to replace him.

Alonso confirmed Martinez was recovering well but explained that his return depended on medical advice and progress following surgery.

Potential return date: Mid-November.

Pep Chavarria

The Spanish wing-back missed consecutive matches against Everton and Tottenham after sustaining an unspecified training injury. However, he has resumed partial team training, raising hopes of an imminent return.

Alonso confirmed that Chavarria was increasing his training workload but would not feature against Tottenham.

Potential return date: October 28 against Liverpool or October 31 against Manchester United.

Reece James

Chelsea's captain suffered hamstring problems before developing a knee issue during training. Following specialist advice, he underwent minor surgery, with his recovery expected to keep him sidelined for approximately three months.

Potential return date: Mid-January.

Emmanuel Emegha

The striker has yet to make his competitive Chelsea debut after suffering a hamstring injury during preseason. Although he has returned to training, Alonso confirmed that a setback delayed his progress.

Potential return date: October 28 against Liverpool or October 31 against Manchester United.

Jamie Gittens

The winger injured his ankle while representing England Under-21s against Kazakhstan on September 25. He returned to Chelsea for treatment, with Alonso initially indicating that recovery would take several weeks.

Potential return date: Early November.