Brief

Chelsea injury update: Palmer, Caicedo and Joao Pedro face October returns

Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo and Joao Pedro could be back for Chelsea's weekend match against Bournemouth, according to Standard.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 08 Oct 2026 13:06:05 GMT

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso confirmed that three first‑team players – forward Cole Palmer, midfielder Moises Caicedo and striker Joao Pedro – are expected to return in October, ahead of the club's Premier League clash with Bournemouth.

What happened

During the recent international break, Palmer, Caicedo and Joao Pedro missed their national team duties because of injuries. Palmer, who struggled with a long‑term groin problem last season, spent time abroad working with a rehabilitation coach. Caicedo has been limited to a 14‑minute cameo this season due to a persistent calf issue and was not called up by Ecuador for friendlies. Joao Pedro, the club’s player of the season, suffered an injury after rescuing a draw against Hull and missed the 3‑0 loss to Brentford.

What the reports add

Standard.co.uk reported that Palmer could be available for the October 10 home game against Bournemouth. The same outlet gave Caicedo the identical potential return date of October 10 versus Bournemouth, noting that he was not involved in the Brentford match but is close to fitness. For Joao Pedro, the source said an exact date is unclear but expects a return sometime in October, possibly late in the month.

What was said

The article quotes no direct remarks from Alonso or the players; it only references Alonso’s earlier suggestion that Caicedo was “close” to returning.

How it came about

Chelsea entered the international break with several injury concerns. Palmer’s fitness work abroad, Caicedo’s calf problem and Joao Pedro’s post‑Hull injury have all delayed their comebacks. With a tricky Bournemouth side due at Stamford Bridge, Alonso could be without up to seven first‑team players if the injuries persist.

Key facts

• Cole Palmer may return for Chelsea's October 10 match against Bournemouth. (standard.co.uk)
• Moises Caicedo is also listed for a potential October 10 return versus Bournemouth. (standard.co.uk)
• Joao Pedro's return is expected sometime in October, possibly late in the month. (standard.co.uk)

Sources

• [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “Chelsea injury update: Palmer, Caicedo, Joao Pedro latest return dates”