Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that key attackers Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke are expected to return from injury after the March international break.

Jackson has been sidelined since early February with a hamstring injury, and Chelsea have struggled in his absence, with goals drying up for Cole Palmer and an injury to Madueke further hampering the Blues’ attacking options. However, Maresca has provided a welcome boost by revealing that both players are on track for a return at the start of April.

Speaking in his press conference on Wednesday, Maresca stated:

“He could be back, probably after the international break. Him and Noni also.”

The Chelsea boss emphasized the importance of the upcoming break, which will allow his squad to recover both physically and mentally before the final stretch of the season.

“This is good news. Before the international break, we have two games – tomorrow and Sunday – and then we have international break, we can recover energy, recover players and then go for the last [bit of the season].”

Chelsea will first take on Copenhagen in the second leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League last-16 tie on Thursday, looking to build on their 2-1 first-leg victory. They will then travel to the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal in a crucial Premier League clash before heading into the break.

Jackson and Madueke are now targeting a return for Chelsea’s first game after the international break—a highly anticipated London derby against Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on April 3.

Jackson has been a vital figure in Chelsea’s attack this season, leading the line with his physical presence and pressing ability. Meanwhile, Madueke’s pace and creativity have been sorely missed on the right flank. Their return will provide a significant boost to Maresca’s side as Chelsea push for a strong finish to the campaign and European qualification.