Chelsea struggles with Colwill injury before season starts

Chelsea faces a significant injury issue as defender Levi Colwill may miss key matches.

Chelsea suffers major injury setback before new season

Chelsea's head coach Enzo Maresca announced that defender Levi Colwill is doubtful for the team's upcoming matches due to an injury sustained during pre-season training. Colwill, who was a vital player last season, is now a concern for the friendly against Bayer Leverkusen and the following match against AC Milan. Maresca confirmed that the situation would be assessed after a medical scan, expressing hopefulness for a quick recovery. The coach emphasized Colwill's importance to the team, as reflected by his contributions during last season's campaign. To mitigate potential defensive gaps, Chelsea has secured 19-year-old Jorrel Hato from Ajax as a backup plan for Colwill, who is still adapting to a new environment and style of play. Other defenders are also facing fitness challenges. Benoit Badiashile is currently recovering from an injury sustained during the Club World Cup, and Wesley Fofana might return in time for the league opener against Crystal Palace.

Chelsea's injury woes reveal the harsh reality of pre-season training. The timing could not be worse, as Colwill's absence leaves a gap that may be challenging to fill. New recruit Hato will likely face immense pressure stepping into such crucial responsibilities so soon. While the club has some defensive depth, the injuries could hinder Chelsea's early season momentum. This situation underscores the importance of depth in the squad, especially as the team prepares for a demanding schedule. If such injuries persist or worsen, it could set the tone for Chelsea's season, complicating their attempt to regroup after a challenging period.

Highlights

As the season approaches, Chelsea must navigate these challenges carefully to find stability.