Overview

• Dario Essugo has had thigh surgery after Portugal U21 duty and will begin rehabilitation at Cobham, further thinning Chelsea’s midfield options.
• Cole Palmer has resumed training following a groin problem, with Maresca set to decide his availability at his pre‑match briefing.
• Liam Delap remains out with a hamstring issue and is undergoing assessment to determine a return timeline.
• Romeo Lavia and Benoit Badiashile are working toward later‑September or October returns, while Alejandro Garnacho is likely to be available primarily from the bench.
• Levi Colwill is sidelined for the season with an ACL injury, and reports indicate Andrey Santos has also had surgery, increasing Maresca’s selection constraints.