Chelsea faces another problem as Estevao suffers a setback on the road to Christmas. Chelsea’s manager Enzo Maresca revealed that the Brazilian star missed the game against Cardiff City due to an injury. Despite the winger’s absence, Chelsea managed to secure a win against Cardiff City. The win secured their place in the EFL Cup semi-finals, with their opponent yet to be known. Even though Chelsea won, the manager said after the game that Estevao’s injury will be a big blow for the London side
Estevao situation explained as Chelsea suffers new injury blow
The Brazilian attacker arrived at Stamford Bridge at the start of this season after a very successful spell with Palmeiras. Last season, he scored 12 goals and provided 5 assists for the Brazilian club, which helped them finish second in the league. This season, he has already scored 5 goals and produced 1 assist for the Blues so far in 21 games.
Yet Chelsea have failed to maintain consistency lately in both the Premier League and the Champions League. Maresca previously said that Estevao is very important to his tactics and is a key player on big European nights. Chelsea expected Estevao to start their last two games, but he only played nine minutes for the club.
After his exclusion from the squad for the EFL Cup, Maresca confirmed that the player had suffered an injury. The Italian coach also added that the player suffered “a small muscular problem,” meaning he will miss Chelsea’s next game against Newcastle United. The Brazilian attacker is expected to return for the Blues after Christmas against Unai Emery’s Aston Villa. It is going to be difficult for the Blues as their opponents are looking for a much-needed win.
How Chelsea Plan to Manage the Situation after the Estevao Setback
Losing a player like Estevao is not easy, certainly not during tight fixtures. Their opponent, Newcastle, are hungry for a win and will surely try their best to take advantage of this situation. Eddie Howe is known for moments like this, and he has done it many times before.
The Italian manager needs to change his tactics and try different players in the number 10 role. With Cole Palmer still not available for the Blues, it is becoming tough for Maresca to fill the gap, but a few names can play in that position. Tyrique George is the type of player who can perfectly fit that role in Maresca’s system. George has already made a big statement, as he has scored 4 goals and provided 1 assist in all competitions. He has already proved to the management that he has the potential to be an attacking midfielder for the club.
Maresca has a huge task to fix the situation, but he has several options available in his squad.
Blue’s reaction
The fans are a bit nervous following the injury news. With the Champions League back to Stamford Bridge, it will be tough for the Blues to manage without Estevao and Cole Palmer. Social media and fan pages are full of debates and talks about the recent injuries. At the same time, fans are confident that Tyrique George will live up to their expectations. Overall the fans are showing mix of emotions ahead of their big game against Newcastle United
Author’s Insight
From the author’s point of view, the situation around Estevao’s recent injury is very tense. With the Blues’ inconsistent performances, it is high time for Maresca to reshape his tactics and find a suitable player for their match against Newcastle United.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
