Chelsea Injury & Suspension Update

Chelsea Injury & Suspension Update Ahead of Club World Cup Clash vs. Palmeiras

Chelsea return to action in the Club World Cup quarter-finals on Friday night, facing Palmeiras in a crucial knockout match. The Blues advanced with a 4-1 win over Benfica, but injuries and suspensions could complicate Enzo Maresca’s plans.

Here’s the latest on Chelsea’s squad availability ahead of the clash—which could feature future Blue Estevao Willian in Palmeiras’ lineup.

Chelsea’s Injury Concerns

Wesley Fofana – Out (Long-Term)

Injury: Hamstring (post-surgery)
Return Date: 2025/26 season
Details: The French defender underwent surgery in April and was left out of the Club World Cup squad entirely.

Benoit Badiashile – Major Doubt

Injury: Unknown (left Benfica match early)
Return Date: July 4 (vs. Palmeiras) – Unlikely
Details: The center-back was seen on crutches after the Benfica win, casting serious doubt over his availability.

Suspension Issues

Moises Caicedo – Banned

Reason: Second yellow card of the tournament (vs. Benfica)
Impact: A huge blow for Chelsea, as the Ecuadorian has been a standout performer in the U.S.

Nicolas Jackson – Available

Return: Served his two-match ban after a red card vs. Flamengo.
Boost: Could start upfront to bolster Chelsea’s attack.

Mykhaylo Mudryk – Excluded (Doping Ban)

Status: Provisional suspension for meldonium (detected late 2024).
Latest: The FA formally charged him in June 2025, signaling a lengthy ban is imminent.

Key Talking Points

Defensive Crisis? With Fofana out long-term and Badiashile likely missing, Chelsea’s backline could be stretched.
Midfield Absence: Caicedo’s suspension forces Maresca to reshuffle his midfield.
Jackson’s Return: The Senegalese striker’s availability is a major boost after his ban.
Mudryk’s Future: His career at Chelsea hangs in the balance as a lengthy suspension looms.