Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed a fresh injury concern ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash with Newcastle United.
The Blues booked their place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals on Tuesday night, edging past Cardiff City after a tough encounter.
Despite facing League One opposition, Chelsea were pushed hard in South Wales and required senior players to secure victory.
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Maresca made several half-time changes as Cardiff dominated early proceedings, forcing Chelsea to respond with greater intensity.
One expected name was missing entirely from the squad, raising questions ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.
Estevao Willian Ruled Out of Newcastle Game
Maresca confirmed that Estevao Willian missed the match due to a minor muscular issue picked up in training.
The Chelsea boss revealed the Brazilian winger will also be unavailable for the Premier League showdown with Newcastle United.
Maresca described the injury as light, expressing optimism that Estevao could return for Chelsea’s following fixture.
Chelsea relied heavily on Joao Pedro and Alejandro Garnacho, both introduced at half-time to swing momentum decisively.
Garnacho scored twice while Pedro Neto added another, sealing Chelsea’s progression despite Cardiff’s spirited resistance, reports London World.
The result underlined Chelsea’s reliance on established starters, with several fringe players failing to impress Maresca.
Attention now turns to Newcastle, as Chelsea look to maintain fourth place and build consistency in the top-four race.
