The team news for tonight’s Chelsea – Leeds game is out, and there was a significant bit of rotation from manager Enzo Maresca, including some rather surprising decisions.
The fact that first choice central defender Wesley Fofana was not in the squad, however, did NOT surprise anyone. The explanation is already in from the Evening Standard’s Dom Smith, and he says what we had all already assumed:
“Standard Sport understands that the club decided to give him a rest following two full 90-minute performances for the Frenchman in last week’s matches against Barcelona and Arsenal.”
Fofana is being managed in much the same way Reece James has been – ideally just 90 minutes per week, stretching to 180 for two big games, but then always taking a full game off after that.
Fofana establishes himself as first choice once again after putting injuries behind him
Trevoh Chalobah and Wesley Fofana chase down Marshall Munetsi in Chelsea's win over Wolves.
Trevoh Chalobah and Wesley Fofana chase down Marshall Munetsi in Chelsea’s win over Wolves. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
In general, it’s pretty clear that Enzo Maresca has now established that Fofana playing alongside Trevoh Chalobah is his preferred pairing. If there was a Champions League final tomorrow, that’s what the manager would be using.
There’s always a chance that over time Benoit Badiashile will earn a starting place – Maresca really likes him as a player. But until he can prove his fitness long term (something he’s simply not been able to do in three years at the club), Chalobah and Fofana are going to continue getting the nod.
In other news…
Chelsea’s team news for today saw them keep one attacking star in the team – but another one is still on the bench as he recovers from a long term injury.
Chelsea could have beaten Arsenal on Sunday, but a red card to Moises Caicedo put paid to that idea. According to one podcast, it was the worst possible time for the midfielder to let us down.
More Stories about Wesley Fofana
Trevoh Chalobah celebrates his goal.
Welsey Fofana in Chelsea training.
Wesley Fofana with a Chelsea logo.