Massive blow to Chelsea as key player issues worrying injury update

Chelsea are facing renewed concerns over their injury crisis after midfielder Enzo Fernandez was forced to withdraw from international duty with a knee problem. The 24-year-old, who has been pivotal in Chelsea’s Premier League campaign so far, returned to London after joining up with the Argentina national team earlier this week.

Enzo Fernandez withdraws from Argentina squad

Fernandez had initially linked up with Argentina after playing the full 90 minutes in Chelsea’s 2-1 win over Liverpool on Saturday. During the early hours of the weekend, he featured for 78 minutes in Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Venezuela in Miami. However, ongoing issues with synovitis in his right knee forced him to leave the national team early, raising fresh concerns for Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca.

Enzo Fernandez was even pictured during training with Argentina wearing strapping on the affected knee, yet he still managed to contribute significantly in the World Champions’ win. Chelsea will be hoping this setback is short-term and doesn’t disrupt their midfield stability during a busy run of fixtures.

Chelsea’s growing injury woes

The Blues are already grappling with a mounting injury list. Players including Liam Delap, Tosin, Wesley Fofana, Andrey Santos, and Dario Essugo were sidelined prior to the international break. Levi Colwill remains a long-term absentee after suffering an ACL injury in pre-season, ruling him out for the remainder of the campaign.

In addition, Cole Palmer hasn’t featured since leaving the pitch during Chelsea’s 2-1 loss to Manchester United last month, while Reece James recently withdrew from the England squad. Fernandez’s knee issue adds yet another potential headache for Enzo Maresca as he navigates Chelsea’s already stretched squad.

Fernandez’s impact this season

Despite these concerns, Fernandez has been an ever-present force for the Blues this season, starting all seven Premier League matches. He has already scored three goals and provided one assist, proving crucial in several key victories. Notably, Enzo Fernandez played a starring role in Chelsea’s 2-0 home win over Fulham, directly contributing to both goals, and featured for the full 90 minutes as Chelsea secured a 2-1 comeback win over Liverpool prior to the break.

The midfield dynamo’s fitness will be vital for Chelsea as they look to maintain momentum in the Premier League. His absence, even briefly, could leave a noticeable gap in Maresca’s squad as the Blues contend with multiple injury challenges.