As if the loss to Aston Villa wasn’t bad enough, Chelsea have more worries from Saturday evening’s clash.
Chelsea fans haven’t been shy about voicing their displeasure at the performance at Stamford Bridge.
It was a discouraging watch and a result that feels like two losses in one.
Chelsea dominated the first half against Villa, making the second-half collapse that much harder to take. And a post-match update from Enzo Maresca only adds insult to injury.
Chelsea drop a huge three points 😑
What has disappointed you most about the performance?
Chelsea lose to Aston Villa
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Enzo Maresca’s concerning Marc Cucurella update
Marc Cucurella was taken off shortly after Villa drew level — a decision that raised eyebrows at the time.
But after the game, Maresca clarified that the substitution was not for tactical reasons, but rather a hamstring issue.
Marc Cucurella heads the ball for Chelsea
Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP via Getty Images
As he told Football London: “Because he was complaining about his hamstring, so we don’t know if it’s an injury now or not. So he asked for the change.”
No concrete answer on the severity of the knock, but it was enough for Cucurella to feel he needed replacing during a pivotal spell in the game.
Now is the time for prayer, considering how much Chelsea rely on the Spaniard.
Cucurella might be the least replaceable player for Chelsea
It’s not to say that Cucurella is the best player Maresca has at his disposal (he’s up there this season), but his absence might be felt the hardest.
If he plays against Bournemouth on Tuesday, it will be the 70th game Cucurella plays in 2025. A ridiculous figure for any player.
But he might not play it, and if that’s the case, it puts Chelsea in a real spot of bother.
Marc Cucurella’s fitness in doubt 👀
Do Chelsea need another left-back in January?
Marc Cucurella playing for Chelsea
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They don’t have a recognised backup other than Jorrel Hato, who hasn’t played nearly enough to justify a starting role.
Luckily, if it is a serious injury, the January window is just days away.
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