Leeds United return to Carabao Cup action when Daniel Farke's side visit Chelsea at Stamford Bridge after Saturday's 1-1 draw at Brighton . Leeds United remain unbeaten after four matches, but three players will miss.
MOT Leeds News , in a report by assistant editor Mark Smith, says Ilia Gruev has only a 25 per cent chance of returning after his lengthy absence, while Joe Rodon and Mateo Joseph remain out with injuries. Dan James should be available after Farke left him on the bench at Brighton because of a back problem. Leeds have confirmed the cup tie will take place on Wednesday, September 9, with an 8 pm kick-off at Stamford Bridge.
Farke expects to rotate his side before the next league fixture, yet James Trafford and Tarik Muharemovic could keep their places after encouraging debuts. Melvin Bard and Jean-Matteo Bahoya could make their first appearances.
For me, Rodon's absence is more significant than the other two omissions. The 28-year-old arrived after Leeds United paid about £10m for him, and his aerial strength and communication give Farke a steadier central defence. Leeds gave him a contract extension to 2030, underlining his standing inside the squad.
Chelsea can punish hesitant defending at Stamford Bridge. Without Rodon, Muharemovic could face an examination against a lively attack, especially if Chelsea press high and force Leeds into rushed clearances.
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 05: Players of Leeds United applaud the fans after the Premier League 2026/27 match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Leeds United at American Express Stadium on September 05, 2026 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Luke Walker/Getty Images)
Gruev is important, but Leeds have Ethan Ampadu and Sean Longstaff to share the midfield work, so his absence shouldn't wreck the plan. Joseph's injury looks easier to absorb. Lukas Nmecha can lead the line, provide a physical outlet and give Leeds a route out when Chelsea pin them back.
That matters because Leeds need more than rotation for its own sake. They need senior players around younger faces to keep the shape. Trafford has shown he can handle pressure, while Muharemovic now gets a tougher assignment.
James returning should help, especially if Farke wants pace after turnovers. Bard and Bahoya could bring fresh legs, yet using too many new players at Stamford Bridge could create gaps.
Leeds United have enough depth to compete, but Rodon's absence changes the risk level. Chelsea can attack that central area repeatedly, test Leeds in the air, stretch recovery runs and force Muharemovic into decisions he has barely had time to rehearse.
