Chelsea Injury Update: Cucurella Scare Deepens, Essugo Setback Confirmed as Blues Battle December Crunch
Chelsea’s injury worries may be easing in some areas, but fresh concerns have emerged as the Blues navigate a relentless December schedule under Enzo Maresca.
There was some positive news at the weekend, with both Estevão and Liam Delap returning to action during Chelsea’s defeat to Aston Villa, providing a boost to a squad that has been stretched by fitness issues in recent weeks. However, that optimism was quickly tempered by a new scare involving Marc Cucurella.
The Spanish full-back was forced to ask for a substitution during the loss at Stamford Bridge, raising fears of a hamstring problem. Speaking after the match, Maresca admitted uncertainty over the severity of the issue, confirming that Cucurella will undergo scans. His availability for Tuesday’s clash against Bournemouth is now in serious doubt.
Meanwhile, Dario Essugo’s frustrating start to life at Chelsea has taken another hit. The summer signing, who suffered a thigh injury in September, saw his November return to training cut short. While initially feared to be a recurrence, the club has since confirmed it is a separate injury, delaying his comeback further.
Romeo Lavia, still being carefully managed after his own fitness struggles, remains without a confirmed return date as Chelsea continue to balance caution with necessity.
