Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Chelsea forward João Pedro will be sidelined for several weeks after suffering a thigh injury, dealing a significant blow to the Blues ahead of their Carabao Cup clash with Liverpool.
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Chelsea have received disappointing injury news ahead of their trip to Anfield to face Liverpool FC on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
João Pedro picked up the injury during training before Chelsea’s Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur. The Brazilian forward subsequently missed the game, which Chelsea lost 2–0 at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking ahead of the Liverpool encounter, Alonso confirmed that the striker would be unavailable for the next few matches.
The Chelsea manager explained that Pedro had suffered a thigh injury and that the club was still determining how long his recovery would take. However, he made it clear that the forward would be out for a few weeks.
Why João Pedro’s absence is a major setback
Pedro has been one of Chelsea’s important attacking players this season, recording five goals and three assists in seven Premier League appearances.
His absence leaves Alonso with a difficult decision over who should lead the attack against Liverpool.
Chelsea struggled to create enough attacking danger during their defeat to Tottenham, highlighting the importance of having their Brazilian forward available.
The injury could also force Pedro to miss additional fixtures, depending on how quickly he recovers.
Chelsea have attacking alternatives
Despite the setback, Alonso believes his squad has enough options to compete while Pedro recovers.
Emmanuel Emegha has returned to training after recovering from a hamstring injury and is available for selection. The striker could make his Chelsea debut against Liverpool.
Veteran forward Danny Welbeck is another option, while young Brazilian attacker Estêvão could also play a role.
Alonso will need to find the right attacking combination if Chelsea are to overcome Liverpool and secure a place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
Liverpool could take advantage
Liverpool will have the home advantage at Anfield and will be looking to capitalise on Chelsea’s injury problems.
However, Liverpool also have fitness concerns of their own, meaning both teams could make changes to their starting line-ups.
With a place in the next round at stake, Chelsea must find a way to cope without one of their leading scorers.
The big question is whether Alonso can find a reliable replacement for João Pedro before Chelsea face Liverpool.
