Leeds United XI vs Chelsea – Predicted lineup and team news

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The Football Faithful

·9 September 2026

Leeds United XI vs Chelsea – Predicted lineup and team news

Leeds United travel to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday looking to reach the Carabao Cup fourth round for the first time under Daniel Farke, with the Whites unbeaten in four matches to start the season.

Victory would also make amends for last season’s penalty-shootout exit to Sheffield Wednesday at the same stage of the competition. Farke has confirmed there will be rotation to integrate several summer signings, though he has been careful to stress that fielding a competitive side remains the priority against Premier League opposition: “They are probably favourites, but we want to be competitive… be respectful, but have no fear.”

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Joe Rodon and Mateo Joseph remain long-term absentees for Leeds, while Ilia Gruev is another fitness doubt. Daniel James is also uncertain, with Farke describing “a little question mark” after the winger reported back and hamstring issues in the warm-up at Brighton; scan results were described as good, and his involvement depends on how he responds over two further training sessions.

Gabriel Gudmundsson is available having played the full 90 minutes on his return from a hamstring injury, which could push James Justin or new signing Melvin Bard for the left wing-back spot. New arrivals Michael Zetterer and Jean-Matteo Bahoya are both in contention to make their Leeds debuts, with Farke confirming a decision on whether Zetterer replaces James Trafford in goal had not been made ahead of training. Jaka Bijol, Harry Wilson, Brendan Aaronson and Lukas Nmecha are also competing to force their way back into the XI.