Mauricio Pochettino and Chelsea have been dealing with a string of injuries during this international break, creating a headache for the manager as he strives to maintain momentum for the upcoming clash against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on October 21.
Arsenal is currently nine points ahead in the season, occupying the second position based on goal difference. The Gunners have had the upper hand in recent meetings with Chelsea and are riding high on confidence following their victory over Manchester City. Although they have their own fitness concerns, they pale in comparison to Chelsea’s litany of issues.
Mykhailo Mudryk: Mudryk was subbed off during a Ukraine match moments after receiving treatment for an injury late in the game. His condition is unclear, and it’s uncertain whether he was substituted tactically.
Possible return date: Arsenal (H) – October 21
Armando Broja: The Albanian striker, who had been sidelined for nine months due to a knee injury, made his first appearances and left the country’s camp early, raising concerns about his progress.
Possible return date: Arsenal (H) – October 21
Cole Palmer: Palmer appeared to sustain a thigh injury during an England U-21 match. He received medical treatment during half-time and was substituted early in the second half.
Possible return date: Arsenal (H) – October 21
Christopher Nkunku: Nkunku, Chelsea’s summer signing from RB Leipzig, has yet to play a competitive match due to a knee injury sustained during a preseason friendly.
Possible return date: December
Nicolas Jackson: Jackson underwent a minor wrist operation and withdrew from the Senegal squad for the international break. He aims to build up his fitness after the procedure.
Possible return date: Arsenal (H) – October 21
Axel Disasi: Disasi suffered a quadricep injury during Chelsea’s match against Burnley. He has been excluded from the France national team.
Possible return date: Arsenal (H) – October 21
Reece James: James received a retrospective one-game ban and missed the Burnley clash after being found guilty of abusing an official. His return to action is imminent.
Possible return date: Arsenal (H) – October 21