Chelsea have been dealt a setback just over a week before the start of the new Premier League season, with defender Levi Colwill picking up a knock in training. Manager Enzo Maresca described the situation as “a problem” but offered little clarity on the nature or severity of the injury.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Maresca said:
“We had a problem the last two days with Levi Colwill that we don’t know how long he is going to be out. Hopefully not too long, but for sure it’s a problem for us. We need to wait, we don’t know yet. It happened during the last minutes of our first session on Monday. He felt something, and now we have to see.”
Colwill, 22, has emerged as a vital player for Chelsea. Last season, he played a key role in helping the Blues secure Champions League qualification, scoring the decisive goal on the final day against Nottingham Forest. His composure on the ball and versatility across the backline have made him a mainstay under Maresca, who was full of praise for the England international.
“I spoke with him yesterday,” Maresca continued. “I told him that if we achieved what we did last season, it was also because of him. He was a main player for us.”
The uncertainty surrounding Colwill’s availability could influence Chelsea’s transfer activity in the coming weeks. With the summer window closing on September 1, the club may be forced to explore potential defensive reinforcements depending on the outcome of medical assessments.
“It depends,” Maresca admitted when asked about possible plans to bring in cover. “We need to wait and then see.”
Chelsea will next be in action on Friday in a pre-season friendly against Bayer Leverkusen. With the Premier League opener against Crystal Palace fast approaching, all eyes will be on updates regarding Colwill’s fitness in the coming days.
