Midweek action is up next for Chelsea as they host Leeds United at Stamford Bridge in the third round of the 2026–27 Carabao Cup.
Failing to qualify to European competitions means Chelsea’s Carabao Cup campaign started earlier than usual. The Blues cruised past Luton Town two weeks ago to reach the third round in what was the first official match of the Xabi Alonso era at Stamford Bridge.
Leeds meanwhile had no trouble beating Nottingham Forest away in the second round. Daniel Farke’s men remain unbeaten this season and will be confident they can pull off an upset in west London.
After falling against Arsenal in the first defeat of the Alonso era last time out, getting eliminated from the Carabao Cup by an inferior side three days later would be a nightmare way to begin the Alonso’s tenure at Chelsea.
The Blues would’ve liked to be playing in the Champions League midweek but instead face a difficult task they are obliged to overcome.
Even if Alonso does decide to make wholesale changes to the XI that took the pitch against Arsenal over the weekend, Chelsea still have the overall edge in quality and should be able to progress past Leeds.
A number of fringe players will be eager to impress in an effort to carve a more prominent role in the Premier League under Alonso. The lighter schedule given the lack of European soccer this season reduces opportunities for players to get consistent minutes. Cup competitions are of vital importance.
It’s a massive match for Alonso’s side, one that could alter the course of its season. Falling out of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday would see Chelsea lose a vital chance at silverware before September even ends.
The pressure is on for the Blues to deliver. Leeds won’t make it easy and have quality players that can harm Chelsea’s suspect defense. Still, Chelsea’s stars will gut out a hard-fought victory to keep their Carabao Cup campaign alive.
