Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Estevao Willian will miss Chelsea’s match against Newcastle United due to a minor muscular injury sustained prior to their Carabao Cup win over Cardiff City.
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Estevao Willian will miss the upcoming Premier League encounter against Newcastle United due to a muscular injury.
The Brazilian youngster was a notable absentee during Chelsea’s hard-fought Carabao Cup quarter-final victory over Cardiff City on Tuesday night.
Despite the absence of several fringe players who failed to impress, the Blues managed to secure their spot in the semi-finals thanks to second-half reinforcements.
Addressing the media regarding Estevao’s fitness, Maresca clarified the nature of the setback following the match at the Cardiff City Stadium.
“Estevao has a small muscular problem, a light injury,” Maresca explained. While the injury is not considered long-term, it is enough to keep him out of the weekend’s high-stakes match.
He added, “He won’t be available for Newcastle but we will see for the next one. I think he can be available for the next one.”
The upcoming fixture against Newcastle is critical for Chelsea as they look to solidify their position in the top four.
The Blues currently sit in fourth place after a recent win over Everton, but they face a Magpies side desperate to rebound from a derby defeat.
Maresca will have to rely on his regular senior stars, such as Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto, to maintain momentum while Estevao works toward a return for the following fixture.