2026-2027 Carabao Cup: Chelsea vs. Leeds—Probable Lineups

Tune in Wednesday night at 9 p.m. for the third round of the Carabao Cup, which will feature Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea taking on Daniel Farke’s Leeds. The Blues have several players on the injured list, so this will be a great opportunity for the reserves.

Xabi Alonso is expected to make seven changes to the lineup that lost to Arsenal in the last league match. Penders will replace Dibu Martinez in goal; Acheampong and Lacroix are confirmed in defense, but Colwill will start alongside them instead of Fofana.

In midfield, Lavia will be the only player retained from the match against the Gunners, with Barco alongside him. Gusto and Chavarría will play on the wings, with Estêvão and Rogers further up front supporting lone striker Welbeck.

Daniel Farke will also make significant changes from the last match against Brighton. Up front, Nmecha gets the start, replacing Calvert-Lewin, with Wilson and Aaronson playing behind him. Justin and Bogle will play wide, with Ampadu and Longstaff in the middle; Bijol, Elvedi, and Muharemović will play in the back. Trafford will be in goal.

Probable lineups
CHELSEA (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Lacroix, Colwill; Gusto, Barco, Lavia, Chavarría; Estêvão, Rogers; Welbeck. Head Coach: Alonso
LEEDS (3-4-2-1): Trafford; Bijol, Elvedi, Muharemović; Bogle, Ampadu, Longstaff, Justin; Wilson, Aaronson; Nmecha. Head Coach: Farke