Just when Chelsea were hoping to find some consistency in their push for a Champions League spot, another setback has struck.
The club is now dealing with another injury concern, this time involving winger Noni Madueke, who will be sidelined until at least the international break in March.
Madueke’s Hamstring Woes
The 22-year-old suffered a hamstring injury during Chelsea’s disappointing 3-0 defeat against Brighton in the Premier League last week.
The result not only dented their momentum but also saw them slip to sixth place in the standings, making their top-four ambitions even more challenging.
Crucial Games Missed
According to The Telegraph, while an exact return date hasn’t been confirmed, Madueke is expected to be unavailable for key matches against Aston Villa and Southampton.
His absence further weakens an already injury-hit squad, adding to Enzo Maresca’s selection headaches.
Striker Crisis Deepens
Madueke’s injury compounds Chelsea’s problems in attack, as the club is already struggling without a natural striker.
Marc Guiu and Nicolas Jackson remain out, with Guiu expected to return in March and Jackson in April.
In their absence, Maresca has deployed Christopher Nkunku as a makeshift No. 9, but the French forward has yet to make a significant impact, failing to score or assist in his last two appearances.
Maresca Under Pressure
Chelsea’s poor form has only intensified scrutiny on Maresca, as the team has managed just three wins in their last 11 games across all competitions.
The dip in results has seen them slide further from the Champions League qualification spots, raising questions about the manager’s ability to turn things around.
Club Backing for Maresca
Despite mounting criticism, Chelsea director Jonathan Goldstein has publicly expressed confidence in Maresca.
Speaking to Bloomberg Television, Goldstein insisted that the Italian coach has done a commendable job and remains fully backed by the club’s hierarchy.
“He’s doing a great job. Chelsea started the season very well.
The past six weeks have been about finding their feet a little bit more.
But Enzo has clearly done a great job in bringing the team together and developing the talent,” Goldstein stated.
When asked if Maresca’s job was secure for the rest of the season, Goldstein responded with a firm, “100 percent.”
What’s Next for Chelsea?
With key players out and Champions League qualification slipping further away, Chelsea face a critical few weeks ahead.
Maresca must find a way to stabilize performances and get the best out of his remaining squad.
Whether he can do that and silence the critics remains to be seen.