Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has provided a mixed fitness update ahead of their crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City. While there’s positive news regarding Levi Colwill and Enzo Fernandez, Romeo Lavia faces a significant spell on the sidelines. Additionally, Cole Palmer, despite recent concerns, is expected to be available for the trip to the Etihad.
Colwill and Fernandez in Contention
Chelsea’s defensive and midfield options could receive a welcome boost with the potential returns of Levi Colwill and Enzo Fernandez. Both players were absent from the Blues’ 3-1 victory over Wolves, with Colwill missing due to a knock and Fernandez suffering from muscle fatigue. However, Maresca indicated that both players are likely to be available for the Man City game, pending their performance in Friday’s training session.
Levi Colwill’s Recovery
Colwill’s absence from the Wolves match marked the first time this season he hasn’t featured in the Premier League. He missed training last Friday, raising doubts about his fitness. However, it appears his issue was not severe, and he has been able to participate in training this week. The young defender, who had previously been sidelined with a knee injury, has been a key figure in Chelsea’s defense this season. His return would provide stability and strength at the back for the Blues.
Enzo Fernandez’s Fitness
Enzo Fernandez also sat out the Wolves game due to muscle fatigue. Although his injury is considered less severe than Lavia’s, his availability for the Manchester City match was uncertain. However, like Colwill, Fernandez has been involved in training and is likely to be included in the squad. The Argentinian midfielder’s presence in the center of the park is crucial for Chelsea’s creativity and ball control.
Romeo Lavia’s Injury Setback
Unfortunately, the news is not as positive for Romeo Lavia. The midfielder is facing a number of weeks on the sidelines due to a fresh muscle injury. He sustained the injury during the game against Bournemouth, which forced him to miss the win against Wolves. This is another frustrating setback for Lavia, who has struggled with injuries since joining Chelsea from Southampton.
Recurring Injury Issues
Lavia’s time at Chelsea has been plagued by fitness problems. He made just one Premier League appearance in his debut season due to hamstring and ankle injuries. After recently returning to the team, he is now facing another spell on the treatment table. Maresca has expressed his disappointment for the young midfielder, acknowledging his desire to play every week. The Chelsea boss hopes to have Lavia back for the last ten games of the season, but is cautious about rushing his return.
Cole Palmer’s Fitness Update
Cole Palmer, who has been a revelation for Chelsea this season, has also been dealing with fitness concerns. He has been playing with an ankle knock sustained against Bournemouth. Despite this, he played 84 minutes against Wolves. Maresca confirmed that Palmer is “getting better” and praised his efforts to play through the pain. Palmer’s availability is crucial for Chelsea, given his significant contribution to their goals this season.
Key Player for Chelsea
Palmer’s impact on the Chelsea squad has been undeniable. His goals and assists have been pivotal in the club’s campaign. He is the team’s top scorer with 20 Premier League goals and has also created numerous opportunities for his teammates. His ability to create chances and score goals will be vital if Chelsea are to secure a positive result against Manchester City.
Other Chelsea Absences
Besides Lavia, several other players remain sidelined for Chelsea. Wesley Fofana is out with a hamstring injury, with his return not expected until mid-May. Benoit Badiashile is also unavailable, with his return expected in early February. Additionally, Mykhailo Mudryk is currently suspended and will not be available for selection.
Manchester City’s Injury Concerns
Manchester City also has their fair share of injury concerns heading into the game. Ruben Dias was forced off at half-time in their recent Champions League game and is unlikely to feature. Other notable absentees for City include Nathan Ake and Rodri. Jeremy Doku, after sitting out with a knock in Champions League action, should be available. Despite these setbacks, Pep Guardiola has confirmed that their three new signings, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, and Omar Marmoush, will be part of the matchday squad.
Predicted Lineups
With several players returning from injury and others still unavailable, predicting the exact lineups for the game is challenging. However, based on recent team news, the predicted lineups could look like this:
Chelsea Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Madueke, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson.
Manchester City Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Ederson; Walker, Akanji, Gvardiol, Lewis; De Bruyne, Kovacic, Silva; Bernardo, Haaland, Foden
Match Preview
The clash between Manchester City and Chelsea is a crucial one, with both teams battling for a top-four finish. Chelsea are currently two points ahead of City in the league table. A win for Chelsea would solidify their place in the Champions League spots, while a City victory would see them leapfrog the Blues. Chelsea have struggled against City in recent years, failing to win any of their last 10 matches against them in all competitions. However, they will be hoping to capitalize on City’s defensive problems and take advantage of the returning players.
Conclusion
Chelsea’s fitness situation is a mixed bag. The potential returns of Levi Colwill and Enzo Fernandez are significant boosts, providing more options for manager Maresca. However, Romeo Lavia’s latest injury is a major blow, further disrupting his progress at the club. Cole Palmer’s fitness is also a key factor, and his participation is essential for Chelsea’s attacking threat. The game at the Etihad is set to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams having a lot to play for.
