Chelsea Facing Six Injury Concerns Ahead of Missing Bayern Munich Clash | OneFootball

Chelsea Injury Concerns Ahead of Champions League Return

Chelsea’s preparations for their first Champions League fixture of the season have been complicated by a series of injuries and illnesses across the squad. Enzo Maresca, now in his second campaign as Chelsea manager, faces a demanding task in juggling his options with Bayern Munich waiting in midweek. Among those carrying concerns are Joao Pedro, Estevao and Romeo Lavia, while several other players remain sidelined.

Joao Pedro’s fitness worries

Since arriving from Brighton in the summer, Joao Pedro has been one of Chelsea’s brightest performers, adding both energy and invention in attack. His influence has already been significant, but his involvement against Brentford raised questions.

Maresca confirmed after the 2-2 draw that the forward was struggling for full fitness. The manager explained: “Joao Pedro, before the game, told me that he was not fit 100 per cent, better [that he] doesn’t play. So if I was thinking about Bayern Munich, Joao would be on the bench. But Joao played because the focus was about tonight. But for sure, when you have so many games, you have to plan a different option.”

Despite playing 79 minutes against Brentford, Pedro’s condition remains a concern. The hope is that he will recover in time to feature against Bayern Munich, but Chelsea are cautious about pushing him too soon.

Potential return date: 17 September 2025 vs Bayern Munich (A)

Photo: IMAGO

Estevao ruled out through illness

Chelsea’s Brazilian teenager Estevao was another absentee at the weekend, having fallen ill during international duty. His absence was felt, with the youngster expected to play a role this season in both domestic and European competition.

No timeline has been confirmed for his recovery, leaving his participation against Bayern uncertain. Maresca will be hoping for positive news in the coming days, particularly given the need for attacking options.

Potential return date: Unknown

Romeo Lavia still sidelined

Romeo Lavia’s time at Chelsea has been plagued by injury setbacks, and the new campaign has provided no respite. The midfielder has been out since the Club World Cup with a muscle problem, and while there is optimism about a return in autumn, no specific date has been given.

His absence continues to leave a gap in Chelsea’s midfield rotation. Maresca has experimented with several options in Lavia’s place, but a fully fit Belgian would undoubtedly bring balance and composure.

Potential return date: September or October 2025

Other absentees impacting squad depth

Beyond Joao Pedro, Estevao and Lavia, Chelsea are also without several other players who could make a difference in this crowded period. Dario Essugo has undergone thigh surgery and is not expected back until 2026, while Liam Delap is recovering from a hamstring injury that will likely keep him out until the end of the year.

Benoit Badiashile is closer to a return after resuming full training, but Maresca has indicated he may not be available immediately. With Bayern Munich looming, the French centre-back might still need more time to reach match sharpness.

Key decisions ahead for Enzo Maresca

For Maresca, the timing of these setbacks is far from ideal. His Chelsea side have shown promise but remain inconsistent, as highlighted by the Brentford draw. Managing the fitness of key figures such as Joao Pedro while ensuring squad depth is not overstretched will be crucial in the weeks ahead.

The Champions League represents both a challenge and an opportunity for Chelsea to measure their progress under Maresca’s stewardship. Supporters will be hoping that the club’s medical team can deliver good news in the coming days, particularly regarding Joao Pedro and Estevao, whose creativity and flair could prove decisive in Munich.