Nicolas Jackson's Club World Cup suspension has been extended to two matches after a review by FIFA. It means the striker will miss Chelsea's last-16 clash as well as their final group game if they progress.
Chelsea face African side ES Tunis on Wednesday morning with Liam Delap set to start in Jackson's absence. There is no appeal process available.
Jackson was sent off less than four minutes after coming on in Chelsea's 3-1 defeat to Flamengo on Friday. He was given a straight red card after a studs up tackle to the shin of his opponent.
The 24-year-old, who was meant to be celebrating his birthday, ended up having a nightmare after being dropped to the bench in favour of Delap. Jackson had set up Pedro Neto in the opener against Los Angeles FC only a few days earlier.
Enzo Maresca knows he has to prepare for matches without Jackson in more competitive circumstances as he will also be out of the first fixture of the new Premier League season in August. Jackson was sent off against Newcastle United in the third-to-last game of the 2024/25 campaign, forcing him to miss the final two matches.
Chelsea got through without him as they beat Manchester United and Nottingham Forest 1-0 with two goals from defenders on the way to securing Champions League qualification. Unlike on that occasion, Jackson issued an immediate public apology from America.
"I want to say sorry", he wrote on his Instagram story. "To the club, the staff, my teammates, and all the fans watching, I let you down," the 24-year-old began. "Another red card... And honestly, I'm so angry at myself. I work hard every day to help the team not to put us in this kind of situation.
"I still don't fully understand how it happened. But one thing is clear: it wasn't intentional. Just a moment in football that went the wrong way. "No excuses. I take full responsibility.
"I'll reflect, I'll grow, and I'll come back stronger for the badge and for everyone who believes in me. Sorry. Sorry, Sorry."
This is a developing news story that will be updated with relevant information as we get it. More to follow...