Chelsea XI vs Leeds: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news, injury latest for Carabao Cup today

Xavi Alonso will be tempted to name a strong Chelsea XI for tonight’s Carabao Cup clash with Leeds.After Caicedo then missed the 2-1 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, Xabi Alonso revealed the Ecuadorian’s injury is not “longer-term” but that he will not repeat “the same mistake” of bringing him back too soon against Brighton.And Alonso said on Tuesday that both Caicedo and wing-back Marco Palestra remain absent and unavailable for the visit of Leeds.Injured: Moises CaicedoPAAlonso said it is not the time to “take a too-early risk” on Caicedo or Palestra and said he feels for the latter being unable to contribute early in the season as a new signing.“He came with huge energy, huge desire to enjoy his game in the Premier League,” Alonso said. “He had a very good pre-season. Right in the days before Fulham, he picked up an injury. We will need him, for sure. He will add a lot of good potential for the team.”Alonso may be minded to rest some players given that Saturday’s home Premier League clash with third-in-the-league Hull City is the priority.That could mean there may be starts against Leeds for the likes of goalkeeper Mike Penders, wing-back Pep Chavarria, midfielder Valentin Barco and centre-back Levi Colwill, who was rested against Arsenal amid a slight fitness issue. Colwill is fine to play, Alonso has said.Chelsea predicted XI vs Leeds (3-4-2-1): Penders; Fofana, Lacroix, Colwill; Neto, Barco, Lavia, Chavarria; Rogers, Palmer; WelbeckOut: Caicedo, Palestra, Henderson, EmeghaTime and date: 8pm BST on Wednesday, September 9, 2026TV: Sky Sports Main Event