Xabi Alonso's first Chelsea match: Carabao Cup second round at home to Luton Town

Chelsea's new manager Xabi Alonso will open his tenure against League One Luton Town at Stamford Bridge in the Carabao Cup second round, week commencing 24 August 2026 (The Guardian). Chelsea last won this trophy in 2015. The home draw against lower-league opposition gives Alonso a low-stakes opening to rotate and assess his squad before the league campaign intensifies.