As Chelsea heads into the international break, the club faces a series of injury setbacks that could impact their early season momentum. A 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace, which capped off an inconsistent start to the campaign, has left manager Enzo Maresca with fresh concerns. Both Malo Gusto and Enzo Fernandez required medical attention during the match, adding to the growing list of injuries that already includes Romeo Lavia and Reece James.
Concerns Over Malo Gusto’s Hamstring
Malo Gusto, the promising right-back, provided another worry for Chelsea fans as he was forced to leave the pitch midway through the second half against Crystal Palace. The young defender had initially shaken off a collision but later appeared to strain his hamstring, leading to his substitution. Gusto’s departure was marked by a concerning gesture towards the bench, indicating discomfort in his hamstring.
Enzo Maresca expressed his concerns post-match, stating, “We will see what happens. It looks like a muscle problem and we are going to see.” With no clear timeline for Gusto’s return, the club faces an anxious wait to determine the severity of the injury.
Potential Return Date: Unknown
Enzo Fernandez Suffers Late Injury
Another blow for Chelsea came in the final moments of the match when Enzo Fernandez, the club’s midfield dynamo, appeared to suffer a painful injury to his jaw. Fernandez, who captained the side against Palace, was helped off the pitch and assessed by the medical team. Despite the injury, Fernandez is expected to join the Argentina squad for their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
While the extent of Fernandez’s injury is unclear, his involvement with the national team suggests that the damage may not be severe. However, the situation will need careful monitoring as Chelsea prepares for their next set of fixtures.
Potential Return Date: September
Romeo Lavia’s Ongoing Hamstring Issues
Romeo Lavia, who endured a challenging previous season, finds himself on the injury list once again. The midfielder, who has shown glimpses of his potential following his move from Southampton, missed the last two matches due to a hamstring injury. Although Maresca downplayed the severity, saying, “Romeo has a small hamstring issue but not a huge concern,” there remains uncertainty about when Lavia will be fully fit to return to action.
Potential Return Date: Unknown
Reece James Still Sidelined
Chelsea’s injury woes are compounded by the ongoing absence of club captain Reece James. The influential right-back has been out since before the start of the season with a hamstring injury. Although James had earlier suggested that his injury was “not too bad,” his absence continues, with a return likely still several weeks away.
James’s injury has left a noticeable gap in Chelsea’s defence, and his eventual return will be eagerly awaited by both the team and supporters.
Potential Return Date: Late September
Conclusion
Chelsea’s early season has been a mix of highs and lows, and these injury setbacks only add to the challenge. With Gusto, Fernandez, Lavia, and James all dealing with fitness issues, Enzo Maresca has a lot to ponder as he navigates this crucial period. The international break offers a chance for recovery, but the uncertainty surrounding return dates means Chelsea must prepare for all eventualities as they seek to build consistency in the Premier League.
