Xabi Alonso explains Estevao omission after Chelsea's Carabao Cup exit

Alonso defended leaving Estevao unused in Chelsea's Carabao Cup loss to Liverpool, citing forced midfield and defensive changes due to fitness concerns.

Xabi Alonso explained his decision to leave Estevao as an unused substitute in Chelsea's fourth-round Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool on penalties at Anfield. The Brazilian forward, who has struggled for Premier League minutes this season with just 53 minutes across six substitute appearances, had started Chelsea's previous two Carabao Cup ties.

Alonso fielded Morgan Rogers, Danny Welbeck and Pedro Neto in attack but made only four of five available substitutions, with Emmanuel Emegha the sole attacking change. The manager revealed he was forced into midfield and defensive changes due to fitness issues, with Moises Caicedo, Malo Gusto and Maxence Lacroix all requiring replacement. Lacroix limped off with a hamstring problem that may affect his availability for Saturday's Premier League match against Manchester United.

When asked about Estevao's omission, Alonso responded: "The season is going to be long, and there will be moments for everyone." The 19-year-old's lack of involvement this season may reflect Alonso's preference for a system with wing-backs and narrow No 10s, with Pedro Neto's versatility favoured in the front three.