Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has delivered an untimely injury update ahead of a crucial Premier League weekend, confirming that young star Estevao Willian will be unavailable for the visit of Newcastle United.
Maresca Reveals Muscular Problem for Estevao
The Brazilian attacker was a notable absentee from the squad that travelled to South Wales for Tuesday night's Carabao Cup quarter-final against Cardiff City. Maresca has now clarified that the omission was due to a fitness issue, which will also sideline the player for the upcoming league fixture.
"Estevao has a small muscular problem, a light injury," the Italian coach explained in his post-match comments at the sold-out Cardiff City Stadium. "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."
Big Guns Required in Hard-Fought Cup Win
The news comes after Chelsea were forced to rely on their established first-team players to secure a place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals. Despite facing a Cardiff side leading League One by four points and on a five-match winning streak, the Blues made heavy weather of the tie.
The Welsh club were the better side in the first half, prompting Maresca to introduce Joao Pedro and Alejandro Garnacho at the interval. The changes had the desired effect, with Garnacho breaking the deadlock. However, David Turnbull's excellent headed equaliser for Cardiff ensured a nervy finish.
Substitute Pedro Neto eventually put Chelsea back in front, and Garnacho sealed the 3-1 victory with a late goal as the home side pushed for a second equaliser.
Top-Four Race Intensifies Ahead of Newcastle Test
Estevao's absence is a blow for Chelsea's squad depth as they prepare for a significant match in the context of their season. The victory over Everton last weekend lifted the Blues back into fourth place in the Premier League, but consistency has been elusive.
The clash with Newcastle represents a key opportunity to build momentum in the top-four race. The Magpies will arrive at Stamford Bridge looking to respond after a surprising Tyne-Wear derby defeat to Sunderland in their last outing, making them potentially dangerous opponents.
While the injury to Estevao is described as minor, his immediate unavailability underscores the physical demands of the schedule and leaves Maresca with one fewer option as he plots a path past a resolute Newcastle side.
