Chelsea’s defensive weaknesses are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore as the Blues prepare to face Liverpool in the EFL Cup. Xabi Alonso’s first season has produced encouraging moments, including a 5-1 win over Bournemouth, but inconsistent results and mounting absences are raising questions about the team’s ability to compete for a place in the Champions League.
The numbers underline the concern: Chelsea are conceding 1.71 goals per 90 minutes, a rate worse than all but the teams involved in the relegation battle. With Liverpool finding their rhythm, the cup tie at Anfield could be a major test for Alonso’s side.
## Chelsea’s defense faces a tough Liverpool test
Liverpool have shown signs of improvement under Andoni Iraola. Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola are settling into the team, while Alexander Isak is working his way back to top form. That attacking progress could put added pressure on a Chelsea defense that has struggled to keep opponents out.
Chelsea’s problems are particularly concerning because the team prefers to press high and play on the front foot. When the press is beaten, the defense must recover quickly and remain organized. Maxence Lacroix has helped provide structure, often staying back as teammates push forward and stepping in to protect the goalkeeper.
But that organization has not been enough to prevent Chelsea from conceding regularly. A difficult visit to Anfield could expose the same weaknesses again and put the Blues’ EFL Cup campaign at risk.
## Set pieces and goalkeeper absences add to the problem
Chelsea’s most persistent defensive vulnerability has come from set pieces. The team has been giving away opportunities through frequent fouls, and those situations become more dangerous when Emi Martínez is unavailable.
Martínez was brought in from Aston Villa to strengthen the defense, but he will miss the Liverpool match while recovering from a broken jaw. Chelsea’s other goalkeepers have not shown the same command of the penalty area, making deliveries into the box a particular concern.
The absences extend beyond the goalkeeping position. Cole Palmer is suspended, while Joao Pedro and Reece James are also set to miss the match. Losing all three leaves Alonso with fewer options and makes an already challenging game even more difficult.
## Enzo Fernández’s departure has left a gap
Chelsea are also feeling the effects of Enzo Fernández’s move to Manchester City during the summer. The Argentine wanted to follow his former manager to the Etihad, leaving the club with a significant hole to address.
The departure has affected Chelsea’s balance, and the team has yet to fully compensate for his absence. While the squad has shown clear progress under Alonso, its defensive record suggests that rebuilding the midfield and improving the team’s protection at the back remain priorities.
Chelsea also missed out on a potential move for Lamine Camara after Monaco withdrew from negotiations. Camara could have helped address some of the squad’s issues, but Alonso will have to find solutions with the players currently available.
## Chelsea may need a more direct approach
Chelsea’s preferred style is built around pressing and possession, but Alonso may need to adjust the team’s approach. Playing more directly and making better use of the front three could help the Blues create more scoring chances.
A more direct style can leave defensive spaces exposed, so it is not a simple fix. Still, goals could be Chelsea’s best form of protection while the team works to improve its defense. The squad will need to find a better balance between attacking ambition and defensive security.
## Liverpool vs. Chelsea: Match details
The EFL Cup meeting between Liverpool and Chelsea is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, at Anfield in Liverpool. Kickoff is listed for 4 p.m. ET, with the match available to stream on Paramount+.
The listed odds are Liverpool +120, a draw +275 and Chelsea +185. Those figures reflect the challenge facing the visitors, particularly with several key players unavailable.
## What the Liverpool match could reveal
Chelsea have shown signs of improvement, but their defensive numbers point to a team that is not yet ready to be considered a Champions League-caliber side. A strong performance at Anfield could provide evidence that Alonso is beginning to solve the problem. A defeat, especially one marked by familiar defensive errors, would reinforce concerns about the team’s readiness.
There is still time for Chelsea to strengthen the squad and make use of the money from Fernández’s departure. For now, however, the Blues must find a way to protect their goal with the players they have. The Liverpool tie is an important test of whether Chelsea can turn their progress into consistent results.