Chelsea Football Club’s injury list continues to lengthen, impacting their ability to field a full-strength squad in the critical match against Arsenal.
Reece James, the club’s captain, was initially expected to return to action after hamstring issues but has suffered a setback. “A one-game suspension for confronting an official in the tunnel after the defeat by Aston Villa ruled him out of making a comeback against Burnley,” the club stated.
James is now training alone, making him a major doubt for the Arsenal match. His potential return date is listed as November 2023.
Young midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka is another name on their injury list.
He sat out the international break to focus on regaining full fitness but is experiencing renewed pain in his knee. He could potentially be available for the Arsenal match on Saturday 21 October 2023, though doubts persist.
Romeo Lavia, who arrived from Southampton in a deal worth £58m, has yet to make his debut for the club.
He sustained an ankle injury during training and although he hasn’t faced any further setbacks, the club is exercising caution with the young midfielder.
His potential return date is set for early December 2023.
The list doesn’t end there.
Cole Palmer, the young forward who recently joined from Manchester City, was forced off at half-time during England Under-21s’ match against Serbia. “I think Cole would be fine, but we don’t take any chances with any of the players,” said England U-21 manager Lee Carsley.
That being said, Palmer’s potential return date is the same as Chukwuemeka’s, set for the Arsenal match on 21 October.
Striker Armando Broja, who had been sidelined for over nine months due to a serious knee injury, also faces fresh concerns.
Albania coach, and former Arsenal man, Sylvinho confirmed that Broja won’t be ready for the next match, stating: “After consulting with our doctors and Chelsea’s, he can’t make it, he won’t be ready for tomorrow.”
However, Broja could potentially return for the Arsenal match.
Other players on the injury list include Axel Disasi, who was described by the French Football Federation as having a “tear in the quadriceps of the left thigh.”
His potential return date is November 2023.
Benoit Badiashile, Ben Chilwell, Christopher Nkunku, and Wesley Fofana are among the others who are currently unavailable for Chelsea due to various injuries.
While the situation presents a challenge for Chelsea, it may provide a boost for Arsenal, who will be keen to capitalise on the opportunity presented by the weakened squad. Chelsea have not yet released any official statement on how they plan to manage the escalating situation. However, with the club set to face title contenders Arsenal soon, these injuries could play a significant role in shaping the London derby and the Premier League title race.