Xabi Alonso and Jordan Henderson Return to Anfield with Chelsea

Xabi Alonso and Jordan Henderson Return to Anfield with Chelsea Liverpool vs Chelsea – EFL Cup Preview Date: Wednesday, 28th October 2026 Venue: Anfield Kick-off: 20:00 GMT Liverpool return to Anfield for an EFL Cup encounter against Chelsea, with Andoni Iraola expected to make several changes as he balances the demands of domestic and European competition. The tie also brings an intriguing reunion, as former Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso returns to Merseyside in charge of Chelsea, accompanied by another familiar face in Jordan Henderson, who has since joined the London club. There is plenty of narrative surrounding this fixture, but Liverpool will be focused on progressing to the next round. Recent performances have demonstrated the team’s attacking potential, although the demands of a busy schedule make rotation almost inevitable. This competition provides Iraola with an opportunity to give younger players valuable minutes while keeping key members of the first team fresh. The Reds have shown encouraging resilience in recent weeks. Their 2–0 Premier League victory over Brighton required them to defend for long periods after taking an early lead, while the 4–3 Champions League win over Villarreal highlighted their ability to recover from adversity. Both results offer positives, but the defensive lapses against Villarreal will be something Iraola wants to avoid repeating. Chelsea should provide a stern test, particularly with Alonso bringing his own ideas and tactical approach to Anfield. The former Liverpool midfielder knows the expectations surrounding the club and will be eager to make his return a successful one. Henderson’s presence adds another layer of interest, with the former Reds captain now representing Chelsea in midfield. Predicted Liverpool XI Formation: 4-2-3-1 GK – Giorgi Mamardashvili RB – Joe Gomez CB – Ronald Araújo CB – Virgil van Dijk (c) LB – Kostas Tsimikas CM – Alexis Mac Allister CM – Trey Nyoni AM – Ryan Gravenberch RW – Rio Ngumoha LW – Bradley Barcola CF – Lewis Koumas I expect a fair amount of rotation from Iraola, with Mamardashvili given an opportunity in goal and several younger players featuring from the start. Mac Allister and Nyoni could again form a controlling midfield pairing, while Gravenberch offers the ability to carry the ball forward and connect the central areas with the attack. Ngumoha deserves another opportunity after his sensational performance against Villarreal. The teenager has demonstrated that he can make a difference at senior level, bringing direct running, confidence and creativity to Liverpool’s forward line. Barcola offers similar attacking threat from the opposite flank, while Koumas will be keen to make the most of a potential start. At the back, Gomez and Tsimikas provide experience of Liverpool’s system, while Araújo’s physicality could prove useful against Chelsea’s forwards. Van Dijk’s leadership would also be valuable in a rotated side, ensuring that the younger players have an experienced organiser behind them. The Cup Provides an Opportunity for Liverpool’s Youngsters The EFL Cup has often provided a platform for Liverpool’s emerging talents, and this fixture represents another opportunity for the next generation to show they belong at senior level. Ngumoha is the obvious name to watch. His recent performances have been outstanding, particularly against Villarreal, where he supplied two assists and helped inspire Liverpool’s comeback. Starting against Chelsea would give him another chance to demonstrate that his influence can extend beyond substitute appearances. Nyoni and Koumas also have opportunities to make an impression. Both will need to show discipline and composure against a Chelsea midfield that will look to exploit any lack of experience. If Liverpool can establish control in the central areas, their younger attackers should have the freedom to cause problems. Koumas is another player with something to prove. His pressing and work rate have been encouraging, but starting as the central striker brings different responsibilities. He will need to occupy Chelsea’s defenders, link the play and take his opportunities when they arrive. There is also the question of how much experience Iraola retains. Van Dijk’s leadership could be particularly important in a rotated side, while Araújo offers the physicality required to handle Chelsea’s forward players. Liverpool should make changes, but that does not mean they should compromise their ambition to progress. Final Thoughts This is a fascinating cup tie, combining the return of two former Liverpool figures with an opportunity for Iraola to assess the depth of his squad. Alonso will know exactly what Anfield means to Liverpool supporters, while Henderson’s return adds another emotional subplot to an already compelling evening. However, sentiment will count for little once the match begins. Alonso will want to make a statement with Chelsea, and Liverpool must be prepared for a difficult contest. The visitors have quality throughout their squad, and a rotated Reds side will need to be organised and clinical to come through. I expect Ngumoha to be one of Liverpool’s biggest threats, with Barcola’s pace and Koumas’s energy offering further attacking options. The key will be finding the right balance between giving younger players opportunities and retaining enough experience to manage the occasion. Liverpool have shown in recent weeks that they can score goals and recover from difficult situations, but this is a fixture where defensive concentration will be essential. Chelsea are capable of punishing mistakes, and the Reds cannot afford another slow start. Ultimately, Anfield should provide the home side with an advantage, and I expect Liverpool to edge an entertaining encounter. Rotation may make the game less predictable, but the quality available to Iraola should be enough to see the Reds through to the next round. Steven Smith’s Score Prediction: Liverpool 3–2 Chelsea