We can win games without him – Enzo Maresca gives squad update

Enzo Maresca press
Photo: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca addressed the media ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Crystal Palace, discussing injuries, form, and the impact of key players. Here are the highlights:

Fofana’s Injury and Defensive Setbacks

Maresca confirmed a significant blow to Chelsea’s defensive options, revealing that Wesley Fofana’s hamstring injury could sideline him for the rest of the season.

“We are together here since we start and every time you ask me about Wes I say many times – I am in love with Wes. That is because he is that kind of defender that gives you a chance to press and be aggressive in one-on-one on the pitch. Wes is a big loss.”

Additionally, Benoit Badiashile is expected to be out “at least until February,” further compounding Chelsea’s defensive issues.

Updates on Key Players

Maresca shared mixed news on Chelsea’s injury front:

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall remains unavailable.

Midfielder Romeo Lavia is “very close” to a return.

Captain Reece James is fit enough to “have minutes” against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

On Lavia’s influence, Maresca acknowledged the midfielder’s importance:

“Football is all about players. You can have the best idea but without the players, you will struggle. Romeo is a top player. With Romeo, we are a better team, but when he is not there, we need to manage that kind of game.”

He added: “We have won games without Romeo, but for sure we are better with him. Not only him, but we are a much, much better team with Reece James. [It is] all about the players. I can give players the tools, but if they are not good enough we will not win games.”