Chelsea faces a tough challenge ahead of their Premier League clash with Aston Villa on Saturday. Their recent league form has been inconsistent, with just two wins in their last nine matches, leaving them in sixth place. However, they remain within reach of the top four and a potential European qualification spot, making this fixture against Villa—one of their direct rivals for European places—crucial.
Manager Enzo Maresca is contending with multiple injury concerns, which he addressed in Friday’s press conference. Six players are ruled out: Noni Madueke (sidelined until after the international break), Nicolas Jackson, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Romeo Lavia, and Marc Guiu. Additionally, Mykhailo Mudryk remains suspended. These absences open the door for younger players to step into the senior squad.
Notably, three Under-21 players—defenders Josh Acheampong and Aaron Anselmino, along with winger Tyrique George—were absent from the U21 match against Manchester United on Friday night, suggesting they are in contention for a call-up against Villa. Acheampong has already featured five times for the senior team this season and has been a regular on the bench. Anselmino, recently recalled from loan, has also been part of the first-team squad. As for George, Maresca has indicated that while he still needs more experience at a higher level, he is being considered due to the ongoing injury crisis.
Meanwhile, U21 players Samuel Rak-Sakyi and Shim Mhueka, who have some senior experience, played in the Friday night fixture, making their involvement against Villa less likely given the short turnaround. Rak-Sakyi recently spoke about his pride in making his senior debut this season and his determination to contribute at both youth and senior levels.
For Maresca, this situation presents a delicate balancing act—ensuring Chelsea remain competitive while also integrating young talent into the squad. Saturday’s match against Villa will be a significant test of his squad management and tactical adaptability.