Chelsea Damage Considerations Forward of Champions League Return
Chelsea’s preparations for his or her first Champions League fixture of the season have been difficult by a collection of accidents and sicknesses throughout the squad. Enzo Maresca, now in his second marketing campaign as Chelsea supervisor, faces a demanding activity in juggling his choices with Bayern Munich ready in midweek. Amongst these carrying considerations are Joao Pedro, Estevao and Romeo Lavia, whereas a number of different gamers stay sidelined.
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Joao Pedro’s health worries
Since arriving from Brighton in the summertime, Joao Pedro has been one in all Chelsea’s brightest performers, including each power and invention in assault. His affect has already been important, however his involvement in opposition to Brentford raised questions.
Maresca confirmed after the 2-2 draw that the ahead was struggling for full health. The supervisor defined: “Joao Pedro, earlier than the sport, informed me that he was not match 100 per cent, higher [that he] doesn’t play. So if I used to be desirous about Bayern Munich, Joao could be on the bench. However Joao performed as a result of the main target was about tonight. However for certain, when you’ve so many video games, it’s important to plan a special choice.”
Regardless of enjoying 79 minutes in opposition to Brentford, Pedro’s situation stays a priority. The hope is that he’ll get better in time to function in opposition to Bayern Munich, however Chelsea are cautious about pushing him too quickly.
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Potential return date: 17 September 2025 vs Bayern Munich (A)
Photograph: IMAGO
Estevao dominated out by way of sickness
Chelsea’s Brazilian teenager Estevao was one other absentee on the weekend, having fallen ailing throughout worldwide obligation. His absence was felt, with the teenager anticipated to play a job this season in each home and European competitors.
No timeline has been confirmed for his restoration, leaving his participation in opposition to Bayern unsure. Maresca might be hoping for optimistic information within the coming days, significantly given the necessity for attacking choices.
Potential return date: Unknown
Romeo Lavia nonetheless sidelined
Romeo Lavia’s time at Chelsea has been tormented by harm setbacks, and the brand new marketing campaign has offered no respite. The midfielder has been out because the Membership World Cup with a muscle downside, and whereas there’s optimism a few return in autumn, no particular date has been given.
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His absence continues to go away a spot in Chelsea’s midfield rotation. Maresca has experimented with a number of choices in Lavia’s place, however a totally match Belgian would undoubtedly carry stability and composure.
Potential return date: September or October 2025
Different absentees impacting squad depth
Past Joao Pedro, Estevao and Lavia, Chelsea are additionally with out a number of different gamers who might make a distinction on this crowded interval. Dario Essugo has undergone thigh surgical procedure and isn’t anticipated again till 2026, whereas Liam Delap is recovering from a hamstring harm that may seemingly maintain him out till the top of the yr.
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Benoit Badiashile is nearer to a return after resuming full coaching, however Maresca has indicated he will not be accessible instantly. With Bayern Munich looming, the French centre-back would possibly nonetheless want extra time to succeed in match sharpness.
Key choices forward for Enzo Maresca
For Maresca, the timing of those setbacks is way from preferrred. His Chelsea aspect have proven promise however stay inconsistent, as highlighted by the Brentford draw. Managing the health of key figures comparable to Joao Pedro whereas guaranteeing squad depth will not be overstretched might be essential within the weeks forward.
The Champions League represents each a problem and a possibility for Chelsea to measure their progress underneath Maresca’s stewardship. Supporters might be hoping that the membership’s medical crew can ship excellent news within the coming days, significantly relating to Joao Pedro and Estevao, whose creativity and aptitude might show decisive in Munich.