Chelsea is facing a serious injury crisis. Three of their young stars—Cole Palmer, Liam Delap, and Dario Essugo—are all injured. They are out for different reasons. This article looks at each injury, how serious it is, who might fill in, and when each might return.
Chelsea Injury Crisis:
Cole Palmer – Groin Problem
Cole Palmer is recovering from a groin injury. He was taken off during a match and has missed several games. The club says they are watching him day by day. Palmer recently posted “Soon back” on social media, which gives hope. But no specific return date has been given yet. He might be back in a few weeks if recovery goes well.
Liam Delap – Hamstring Injury
Liam Delap pulled up with a hamstring injury just minutes into Chelsea’s game against Fulham. Scans show he does not need surgery. He is expected to miss about 10 weeks. That means his return could come in November, shortly after the international break. In the meantime, Chelsea have recalled Marc Guiu from loan to help cover in attack.
Dario Essugo – Thigh / Hamstring Surgery
Essugo’s injury is the worst of the three. While playing for Portugal’s U21s, he injured his thigh (or hamstring region) badly enough to require surgery. Chelsea confirmed the surgery was successful, but the recovery will be long. The club feels he won’t be back until January 2026 at the earliest.
What Chelsea Can Do & Who Might Fill In?
With Delap out, Chelsea have called up young striker Marc Guiu to help carry the load in attack.
Midfield cover might come from players already at the club, especially since Essugo’s absence leaves a gap. Players like Andrey Santos could be asked to step up. Romeo Lavia has returned from his injury.
For Palmer, since it’s a groin injury, rest and rehabilitation are key. No backup has been officially named.
Summary
Chelsea is short of key players right now.
Palmer – recovering, no firm return date, likely weeks.
Delap – about 10 weeks out, return in November.
Essugo – serious injury, surgery done, not expected back until early 2026.
Author’s Insight:
The club must manage their squad wisely through the coming months. If you like, I can pull together a projected lineup or discuss how this might affect performance.
