There are plenty of reasons for Chelsea supporters to be excited about their team’s return to action later this week.
After Chelsea’s dramatic win over Liverpool in the Premier League, top-flight football paused for October’s international break.
While several players are off representing their countries, Enzo Maresca is working with the remaining stars. Incidentally, Chelsea prospect Ryan Kavuma-McQueen has trained with the main group at Cobham.
We’ve taken a look at the three biggest reasons to be excited about the Blues returning after the break…
Enzo Maresca arriving at Stamford Bridge before Chelsea against Liverpool in the Premier League.
Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images
Attractive fixtures
The Blues play seven games across all competitions before another pause for November’s international break. On paper, it’s a favourable fixture run where Maresca’s side should be aiming to build some real momentum.
Chelsea must be eyeing a healthy points return in their upcoming four Premier League matches. Also, they play a couple of important Champions League fixtures and a Round of 16 tie in the Carabao Cup.
After seven league games so far, Chelsea sit seventh in a congested table on 11 points. While no fixture in the Premier League is ever easy, they should have an opportunity now to climb up the division with some wins.
Chelsea’s aim for the 2025-26 season is to end up in the Champions League spots again after finishing fourth last term.
Estevao Willian
With Cole Palmer out injured for Chelsea’s next four games, fans may be looking towards Estevao Willian to provide the magic spark.
The 18-year-old winger should be super confident because of his winning goal last time out against Liverpool. He scored twice for Brazil against South Korea last week, too.
Estevao, who’s got a great relationship with Maresca, has been slowly integrated into the side during his debut campaign in English football. However, the left-footed attacker is definitely ready to emerge as a key figure.
The South American wonderkid doesn’t look fazed by any stage he appears on, so there should be major excitement about what he could contribute in this next month.
Malo Gusto celebrates with Estevao Willian after Chelsea score a winning goal against Liverpool in the Premier League.
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Key players have rested
Even though Chelsea couldn’t use the momentum of beating Liverpool because of the international break, it perhaps came at a fortunate time for their squad because it’s allowed several injured stars longer to recover.
For instance, Joao Pedro and Moises Caicedo have played with knocks in recent Chelsea games. Therefore, it was a real boost to see them not picked by Brazil or Ecuador because they’ve had time to heal and prepare for the schedule ahead.
In addition, Tosin Adarabioyo is expected to be available after the international window, while Wesley Fofana can play again after a concussion.