Chelsea’s pre-season ended on a high with a convincing 4-1 win over AC Milan, but the victory came at a cost as fresh injury concerns emerged just days before their Premier League opener against Crystal Palace. Enzo Maresca, preparing for his first domestic campaign in charge of the Blues, faces a balancing act with several key defenders nursing setbacks. Here’s the latest on Trevoh Chalobah, Romeo Lavia, and Wesley Fofana.
Trevoh Chalobah: Scare averted after ankle knock
Chelsea fans feared the worst when Trevoh Chalobah limped off against AC Milan after awkwardly colliding with Yunus Musah. The defender was in clear discomfort and required treatment before being withdrawn. Fortunately, Maresca was quick to reassure supporters after the game.
“[Chalobah] is ok. It was too hot, so he decided to go out,” the manager said, confirming the issue was not as serious as initially feared. Chalobah even joined the team’s Club World Cup trophy celebrations post-match, easing concerns.
Potential return date: Crystal Palace (h) – Sunday, August 17, 2025
Romeo Lavia: Timeline still uncertain
Romeo Lavia has not featured since playing 85 minutes in the Club World Cup round of 16 win over Benfica. A minor muscle problem kept him out of the subsequent matches, and he has not been seen in recent training sessions.
The Belgian midfielder’s recovery timeline remains unclear, leaving Maresca short of options in midfield. His absence continues to frustrate fans, especially given his limited game time since joining the club.
Potential return date: Unknown
Wesley Fofana: Closing in on a return
Injury-plagued since his switch from Leicester in 2022, Wesley Fofana has managed just 34 competitive appearances in Chelsea blue. However, there is finally some good news. The French defender returned to full training this summer after his latest thigh setback and is expected to be available for the clash with Palace.
Maresca confirmed: “He will be available for Palace. We are very happy because he is an important player.”
The club is likely to manage his minutes carefully to avoid another setback, but his return will provide a huge boost to Chelsea’s defensive line.
Potential return date: Crystal Palace (h) – Sunday, August 17, 2025
Outlook ahead of Palace clash
Chelsea’s injury list remains significant, with Benoit Badiashile expected back in September and Levi Colwill sidelined for most of the season following ACL surgery. Still, the potential return of Chalobah and Fofana offers a timely lift as the Blues aim to start their Premier League campaign on the front foot.