One of the most highly anticipated fixtures of the season is on the horizon following the international break. Both Arsenal and Chelsea will be eager to build on their recent successes, with Arsenal having defeated the defending champions, Manchester City, and Chelsea finding their rhythm in the new season.
Chelsea is currently confronted with a few injury concerns, though they welcome their captain back into the squad. The clash promises to be an exciting and pivotal match that could have a significant impact on the Premier League standings.
Chelsea injury report
Chelsea seemed to be on the path to recovery from injuries, but the international break has brought new challenges. Several players, including Romeo Lavia, Armando Broja, Cole Palmer, and Mykhailo Mudryk, have experienced fitness concerns over the past week.
Additionally, some players still have another international match to contend with, raising concerns about their fitness and potential impact on Chelsea’s squad. Injuries and fitness issues are an ongoing challenge in professional football, and clubs like Chelsea must navigate them throughout the season.
Romeo Lavia has yet to make his Chelsea debut since joining the club from Southampton for £58 million. Initially, he could not play because he lacked match fitness. Then he later suffered an ankle injury in training.
Romeo Lavia may not be rushed back into action until early December, especially considering Chelsea’s busy festive schedule. The fact that he is no longer required to wear a protective boot and has commenced rehabilitation work in the pool before the October international break indicates a gradual but cautious approach to his recovery.
Despite an injury scare for Cole Palmer, he is expected to return to action on Saturday, October 21, 2023. Reece James, the club captain and Mykhailo Mdryk will also return on that day.
Axel Disasi appears unlikely to be fit to play in the upcoming match against title contenders Arsenal, which is a significant London derby immediately following the international break. Hence, his expected return date is November 2023.
Chelsea set for London derby against Arsenal
The upcoming match between Chelsea and Arsenal is always one of the most highly anticipated games in the Premier League. However, leading up to this weekend’s clash, both teams are dealing with various issues, including injuries and fitness concerns among their players.
The quality of the Chelsea team has depleted, considering the number of injuries the club is currently nursing. There are several long-term injury absences, with players like Wesley Fofana, Christopher Nkunku, and Romeo Lavia all sidelined.
But the good news is that Reece James, who is being prosecuted by the FIA, will hopefully return on Saturday. Benoit Badiashile, Carney Chukwuemeka and Trevoh Chalobah have also trained with the squad. Hence, they are expected to make a sensational return against Arsenal.
However, there is a major concern for Chelsea’s striking force as Armando Broja had to withdraw from Albania’s international squad during the recent break. Additionally, Nicolas Jackson has undergone wrist surgery, which has added to the list of injury concerns for the club.
