Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that the Blues are without Dario Essugo and Romeo Lavia with injuries ahead of the Carabao Cup third round tie against Lincoln City on the road.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that key midfielders Dario Essugo and Romeo Lavia will miss the upcoming Carabao Cup third-round clash against Lincoln City due to injuries. The duo, both vital components of the Blues’ recent lineup adjustments, sustained setbacks during training sessions earlier this week. While Maresca did not disclose the exact nature or expected duration of their absences, he emphasized that the club’s medical team is closely monitoring their progress. The timing of their unavailability adds pressure to a squad already navigating a packed fixture schedule, with Maresca likely to explore rotational options to fill the void in midfield.
The absence of Essugo, a dynamic young talent known for his energy and technical ability, and Lavia, a creative force with a knack for breaking up play, leaves a noticeable gap in Chelsea’s tactical setup. Maresca may turn to fringe players or academy graduates to bolster the midfield depth for Tuesday’s match. The decision could also see veterans like Conor Gallagher or Moisés Caicedo given additional responsibilities, though both have been heavily utilized in recent Premier League fixtures. The manager’s willingness to integrate emerging talents in cup competitions could provide an opportunity for others to stake their claim in the first team.
The Carabao Cup third-round tie represents a crucial chance for Chelsea to build momentum in a competition where they have historically been strong, despite recent inconsistent performances. Maresca has previously stressed the importance of balancing squad rotation with maintaining competitiveness, particularly as the club aims to address its form in domestic league play. Facing Lincoln City, a League One side currently enjoying a strong campaign, adds an element of unpredictability, with the Blues expected to field a mixed lineup featuring experienced stars and prospects eager for senior minutes.
Lincoln City, under manager Michael Skubala, has shown resilience this season and will relish the opportunity to challenge a Premier League giant at their home ground. The Imps’ compact, high-pressing style could test a rotated Chelsea side, especially with key absences in midfield. For Maresca, the match offers a dual purpose: securing progression while assessing the readiness of less-frequent contributors. However, the unavailability of Essugo and Lavia underscores the fragility of squad depth during an already demanding period, raising questions about how the manager will balance priorities across multiple competitions.
