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Chelsea’s fortunes are looking up once again. Despite the unpredictability of the Premier League standings, Enzo Maresca’s side has reasons to be optimistic. Just two unfavorable results could drop them back to 10th, but for now, momentum is on their side.
Following a commanding 4-0 victory over Southampton, Chelsea enjoys a full week of rest before resuming Conference League action. A home fixture against struggling Leicester City follows, setting the stage for a crucial away clash against Arsenal before the international break.
That showdown carries immense significance. With Mikel Arteta’s men trailing Liverpool by 13 points in the title race—albeit with a game in hand—the pressure is mounting on them. Arsenal’s subsequent Premier League match is a visit to Old Trafford, further complicating their path.
For Chelsea, the opportunity is clear: they are locked in a battle with Newcastle, Bournemouth, Brighton, Fulham, and Aston Villa for a coveted top-four finish. The standings are tight, with just five points separating seven teams, while Nottingham Forest sits only six points ahead.
Navigating the next two weeks successfully will give Maresca plenty to fight for in the remainder of the season. Moreover, his squad will soon receive a significant boost as several key players return from injury.
Key Players Set to Return
At present, Chelsea is missing seven first-team players, at least four of whom are regular starters. Their absences have forced Maresca to adapt his tactics and squad selection. However, relief is on the horizon.
“We could have most of the squad back after the international break, maybe even all of them,” Maresca shared last week. “That would be a huge boost for us.”
Among the most notable absences has been Nicolas Jackson, who has been sidelined for two weeks. His absence has left Chelsea without a natural striker, prompting Pedro Neto to step in as a makeshift No.9. While Neto has impressed, Jackson’s return will reinvigorate the attack, especially for Cole Palmer, who has struggled without his usual partner in the final third.
Defensively, Wesley Fofana has been out since early December but recently returned to the bench against Southampton. Initially feared to be out for the season, he now appears on track to feature again, bringing his athleticism and ball-playing ability back to the backline. His eventual partnership with Levi Colwill could be crucial.
Benoit Badiashile, another defensive option, remains slightly behind Fofana in his recovery but is expected back by mid-March. His return will provide additional cover, particularly in Conference League fixtures, where he can regain match fitness.
Meanwhile, Trevoh Chalobah suffered a setback just minutes into the clash with Aston Villa, and although he may not return before the international break, Maresca remains unconcerned about a long-term absence. Tosin Adarabioyo and Josh Acheampong offer backup in the right center-back role.
Midfield and Attacking Reinforcements
In midfield, Romeo Lavia continues his struggle for consistent playing time. A season plagued by injuries has limited him to just 12 appearances, with his most recent outing against Bournemouth in January ending prematurely. His return would add depth and stability to Chelsea’s midfield.
Further up the pitch, Noni Madueke’s absence has led to increased responsibilities for Christopher Nkunku, who has had to adjust to different roles. While Nkunku showed glimpses of his best form against Southampton, Chelsea looks far more dangerous with Madueke operating on the right flank rather than Jadon Sancho.
Marc Guiu is another player working towards recovery. Although he won’t be fit in time for Chelsea’s next Conference League match, should the club advance to the quarter-finals, he will have opportunities to contribute. Injured alongside Jackson on deadline day (February 3), Guiu is yet to start a Premier League match but remains Chelsea’s only other natural center-forward, making his return significant.
A Crucial Period Ahead
With several key figures set to rejoin the squad, Maresca will soon have a wealth of options at his disposal. As Chelsea aims to cement a top-four finish, these returning players could provide the extra firepower needed at this pivotal stage of the season.
