Chelsea injury update has taken on added importance ahead of the London derby against Arsenal on 1 March, with Estevao emerging as a fresh concern.
The Blues were held to a draw by Burnley last weekend and will be without Wesley Fofana through suspension after his red card. Meanwhile, head coach Liam Rosenior is assessing a growing list of fitness issues as Chelsea prepare for a crucial trip to the Emirates Stadium.
Chelsea injury update: Estevao hamstring concern
Estevao was absent from the matchday squad against Burnley after suffering a hamstring problem in training.
“Unfortunately yesterday in the training session, he felt awareness in his hamstring,” Rosenior said before that match. “At the moment we are scanning it to make sure it’s nothing too serious.”
Post-match, he added that assessments were ongoing. The Brazilian remains a doubt for Arsenal, with no confirmed timeframe yet provided.
Potential return date: Unknown
Reece James fitness reassurance
Reece James made his first Premier League start since late January but was substituted shortly before full-time against Burnley.
Rosenior dismissed concerns, explaining the change was precautionary.
“Any sign of fatigue with him, I want to get him off the pitch. I need him for Arsenal. He should be absolutely fine,” the head coach said.
Chelsea are therefore optimistic their captain will be available.
Potential return date: 1 March vs Arsenal (A)
Marc Cucurella timeline unclear
Marc Cucurella has missed recent fixtures with a hamstring injury sustained against Leeds.
“I can't give an exact timeframe on Marc,” Rosenior admitted. “It’s a real shame because he's an outstanding player.”
With Jorrel Hato and Malo Gusto available to cover, Chelsea have options, but Cucurella’s return remains uncertain.
Potential return date: Unknown
Jamie Gittens long-term setback
Jamie Gittens suffered a hamstring tear in the comeback win over West Ham.
“Jamie is looking a little bit more long-term,” Rosenior confirmed.
The winger is expected to miss an extended period.
Potential return date: Unknown
Filip Jorgensen rehabilitation ongoing
Back-up goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen continues to work through a muscle issue and has not featured in recent squads.
“Filip's not fully fit at the moment. He's working really hard on his rehab,” Rosenior stated.
Potential return date: Unknown
Dario Essugo and Levi Colwill progress
Dario Essugo is expected to be sidelined for over a month after slipping in training, though a March return is possible if recovery progresses smoothly.
Levi Colwill, meanwhile, continues rehabilitation from a serious pre-season knee injury. Rosenior confirmed the defender is “on the right track” but avoided placing pressure on a specific date.
“He's itching to get back but we need to make sure he feels 100 per cent perfect,” Rosenior said.
Potential return date (Colwill): May 2026
Key Insights
- Estevao is a doubt after a hamstring issue
- Reece James is expected to be fit for Arsenal
- Marc Cucurella’s timeline remains unclear
- Jamie Gittens faces a longer-term absence
- Levi Colwill is progressing but not yet match ready
What’s Next
Chelsea face Arsenal on 1 March in a fixture that could shape their European ambitions. Fitness updates later this week will determine whether Estevao can feature. However, squad depth will again be tested, particularly in wide attacking areas and at left-back.
Can Chelsea overcome their injury challenges and deliver a statement result at the Emirates?
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