Reece James in action for Chelsea in 2026

Chelsea injury update: Reece James doubt as Gittens setback hits before Man City clash

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Apr 6, 2026, 6:41 am
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Image: IMAGO / Fotoagenzia

Chelsea injury update ahead of Manchester City and Manchester United fixtures has revealed several key concerns, with Reece James, Jamie Gittens and Trevoh Chalobah all facing uncertain timelines.

The Blues returned to action with a 7-0 FA Cup win over Port Vale on 4 April 2026, but multiple absentees remained unavailable, and a fresh setback has added to Liam Rosenior’s selection challenges during a crucial stage of the season.

Chelsea injury update before Man City clash

Reece James remains one of the biggest doubts after suffering another hamstring injury in March. The Chelsea captain has not featured since the defeat to Newcastle and continues to be managed carefully.

Rosenior confirmed the defender is progressing but stopped short of offering a firm return date.

“He’s getting along really well, but not ready yet. We work day-to-day.” — Liam Rosenior, via club media

A return against Manchester City on 12 April 2026 is possible, though not guaranteed, with the club keen to avoid rushing him back.

Jamie Gittens suffers fresh injury setback

Jamie Gittens’ situation has taken a negative turn after the winger picked up another injury in training, just as he was closing in on a return.

Rosenior confirmed the issue appears to be another hamstring problem, raising concerns given his recent injury history.

“It’s a real shame for him… we have to scan him and make sure.” — Liam Rosenior, via club media

There is currently no confirmed timeline for his return, with further assessment required.

Trevoh Chalobah and Levi Colwill progressing

Trevoh Chalobah is making steady progress after sustaining a high ankle sprain during the Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. The defender had initially feared a more serious injury but is now expected to return later this month or in early May.

Levi Colwill is also moving closer to a comeback after a long-term ACL injury. Having returned to full training, he is expected to need additional weeks before being match-ready.

From the last few Chelsea matches we’ve covered, defensive depth has been tested, particularly with multiple absentees at once. However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions on how quickly stability will return.

Goalkeeper situation and other absentees

Filip Jorgensen is also sidelined after undergoing minor surgery on a groin issue. His recovery is expected to take a few weeks, with a potential return later in April or May.

Player Injury Expected Return
Reece James Hamstring 12 April 2026 (possible)
Jamie Gittens Hamstring Unknown
Trevoh Chalobah Ankle April/May 2026
Levi Colwill ACL Late April/May 2026
Filip Jorgensen Groin surgery April/May 2026

source: club updates – 6 April 2026

Key Insights

  • Reece James is progressing but remains a doubt for Man City
  • Jamie Gittens has suffered another hamstring setback
  • Trevoh Chalobah is expected back later this month
  • Levi Colwill is nearing a return after long-term injury
  • Chelsea face key fixtures with multiple defensive absences

What’s next for Chelsea?

Chelsea host Manchester City on 12 April 2026 before facing Manchester United shortly after, with both fixtures likely to shape their push for a top-four finish.

Rosenior will need to make late decisions on several players, particularly James, while also managing workloads carefully given the number of returning players.

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