Maresca without key trio for Chelsea v Benfica Champions League tie | OneFootball

Enzo Maresca has revealed that Moisés Caicedo, João Pedro, and Andrey Santos are doubtful for Chelsea's squad, for the match against Benfica, counting for the second round of the Champions League group stage. The Spanish coach spoke with journalists at a press conference previewing the match, and admitted some problems in the blues' squad. The eagles also have a last-minute drop-out.

"We have to maintain the level because the Champions League demands it. We have many injuries, it's true, this afternoon we will assess Caicedo, João Pedro, and Andrey Santos", began Enzo Maresca, speaking about the trio who felt some physical problems after Chelsea's last game, against Brighton.

The Spanish coach continued, without forgetting the other options he has in his squad: "These are players who are touched, we will see if they are available tomorrow. But we have a team with enough quality to replace them, if necessary."

The truth is that, if these absences are confirmed, Chelsea would be unable to use three of the players with the most minutes this season so far. The three have been starters for the team from the English capital, and to these is also added, for example, Cole Palmer, who is recovering from injury and is expected to be sidelined for more than a month.

Remember that, after the defeat with Qarabag in the start of the main round of the Champions League, Benfica seeks to respond in the best way. The reds have the kick-off for the game with Chelsea scheduled for 20:00 next Tuesday, September 30, in a match that takes place at Stanford Bridge.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.