Chelsea Faces Injury Setbacks as Moises Caicedo and Marco Palestra Miss Luton Cup Clash
Xabi Alonso, Chelsea's head coach, confirmed that Moises Caicedo and new signing Marco Palestra will miss the upcoming Carabao Cup tie against Luton Town due to injury issues. This double setback comes after Chelsea’s narrow 3-2 win at Fulham in their Premier League opener.
Injuries Limit Squad Options
The Blues have been forced to face the domestic cup fixture without two key players. Neither Caicedo nor Palestra played in the recent west London derby and both remain sidelined for the Thursday game at Stamford Bridge. Palestra, who arrived from Atalanta this summer, has an uncertain return date, while Caicedo might be back sooner.
Alonso Discusses Player Fitness
"During the week they had a few setbacks," Alonso said during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday. "With Moi – and with any player – we don’t want to take too much risk. They weren’t ready to play tonight."
He added more about their status before the Luton match: "Not for tomorrow, both won’t make it. Let’s see, hopefully Moi could make it for the weekend, but we need to check a little bit more with Marco. Otherwise everyone from Monday is okay, Cole [Palmer] is absolutely fine."
Goalkeeper Situation and Team Selection
Amidst transfer rumors, Chelsea’s goalkeeper spot is under scrutiny after Robert Sanchez's performance against Fulham. Reports suggest interest in Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez. This uncertainty might open a chance for backup keeper Mike Penders to start against Luton.
Alonso commented, "Penders is part of the squad, so he has an opportunity. We will decide and then I am giving the team tomorrow to the players, so I prefer to respect that they know first."
Enzo Fernandez Expected to Play Despite Transfer Rumors
Despite ongoing speculation linking Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City, Alonso confirmed the Argentine midfielder will feature. He praised Fernandez’s professionalism and current training form.
"Enzo, yes we expect him to be involved. He is training really well, he’s a good professional, and he will be involved."
Long-Term Absences and Upcoming Fixtures
Caicedo aims to be fit for Chelsea’s next Premier League match this weekend. Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson and Emmanuel Emegha remain out after missing the opening-day win but should resume training within two weeks.
A victory over Luton would help Chelsea progress in the Carabao Cup and maintain momentum early in Alonso’s tenure. Still, the coach must carefully manage player fitness to avoid worsening injuries during a busy schedule.
- Competition: Carabao Cup
- Date: 27 August 2026
- Kickoff Time: 20:30
- Match: Chelsea vs Luton Town
