By Michael Nsikan Richard – Oct 27th 2025
Cole Palmer. Image Credit: Instagram
Under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea FC is grappling with a devastating injury crisis, with at least 8 senior team players currently sidelined. This situation has negatively impeded their EPL title challenge, leading to recent defeats against Sunderland last Saturday, 25th October, and Nottingham Forest. The issues touch multiple roles, particularly defence and attack, and result from a mix of long-term absences, international breaks, and in-game incidents.
Following his post-match press conference after the defeat to Sunderland, manager Maresca revealed that key midfielders Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández, along with forward Joao Pedro, are unable to train fully, carefully placing them on a managed injury list. This revelation explains their suppressed output against Sunderland, where the midfield was dominated. While not sidelined entirely, their limited training raises concerns about availability for upcoming fixtures, worsening the situation of an already stretched squad.
Chelsea currently has 10 players on the injury list – Reece James, Liam Delap, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, Cole Palmer, Dario Essugo, Benoit Badiashile, Enzo, Caicedo, and Joao Pedro.
“Major Influence”
With Caicedo, Fernandez, and Pedro’s prowess weakened, thereby putting the midfield and attack under strain, Chelsea’s high-pressing style suffered against Sunderland, leading to conceded goals from counters. Maresca admitted to applying desperate measures due to depth issues, risking a worsening case, but prioritising results.
Delap and Fofana’s potential returns could strengthen options for the Carabao Cup against Wolverhampton, but no new long-term blows have been reported.
Still 8th in the PL, Maresca’s rotation has produced resilience, but January recruitments and reinforcements, e.g., midfield depth, are highly anticipated.
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