The highly anticipated Carabao Cup final clash between Chelsea and Liverpool is poised to be without several key stars from both teams. As the two giants prepare to face off at Wembley on February 25, both sides are grappling with personnel challenges, impacting their ideal preparation for the final showdown.

The Blues will be without key defensive players in the final against Liverpool. Defenders Reece James, Benoit Badiashile, and Marc Cucurella are all sidelined due to long-term injuries. Mauricio Pochettino also revealed a “minor injury” for Thiago Silva before the 1-1 draw against Man City, raising doubts about his availability for the final. Additionally, midfielder Romeo Lavia is ruled out due to ongoing struggles with injuries. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is set to make a return after a hiatus since December, having recovered from a knee injury. On the contrary, Wesley Fofana is confirmed to be absent as he continues his rehabilitation from a long-term knee injury. Similarly, Carney Chukwuemeka remains uncertain for the final after missing the draw against Man City.

Jurgen Klopp faces key absentees in his lineup for the final against Chelsea. The recent 4-1 victory over Brentford was marred by injuries to Darwin Nunez, Curtis Jones, and Diogo Jota. Jota’s apparent collapse when stretchered off the field raised concerns, with Klopp confirming it as the “most serious” among the three injuries. Curtis Jones left the field after a collision with an opponent’s shin, necessitating medical assistance after the game. Nunez was substituted at halftime against Brentford, and his participation in the Carabao Cup final remains uncertain. Alisson Becker’s absence looms large for Liverpool, as the goalkeeper sustained a muscle injury ahead of the Brentford match, and Caoimhin Kelleher may have to step in. Trent Alexander-Arnold is confirmed to be unavailable due to a knee injury. Klopp also casts doubt on Dominik Szoboszlai’s appearance due to an Achilles tendon issue.

As Chelsea and Liverpool gear up for the Carabao Cup final, the absence of key players due to injuries adds an element of uncertainty to the highly anticipated clash. The impact of these personnel challenges on the strategies and dynamics of both teams will unfold on the Wembley pitch, shaping the narrative of this prestigious final.