Chelsea Women will be without Erin Cuthbert, Mayra Ramirez and Manaka Matsukubo for Wednesday evening’s Champions League qualifier against Real Sociedad.
Head coach Sonia Bompastor confirmed the three absences before the first leg at the Cherry Red Records Stadium.
Chelsea trio could miss both Real Sociedad matches
Cuthbert suffered an injury during the most recent international break and remains in recovery.
Matsukubo will also miss Chelsea’s first competitive fixture of the season, although the club have not disclosed the precise nature of her problem.
Ramirez remains on an individual rehabilitation programme after the serious hamstring injury which prevented her from playing last season.
Bompastor indicated that none of the three players are expected to recover for the second leg in Spain on 2 September. No firm return dates have been placed on their recoveries.
Chelsea otherwise have an almost fully available squad for the opening game of their European campaign.
Chelsea begin Champions League qualification bid
Real Sociedad visit London after finishing third in Liga F last season.
Chelsea also finished third domestically, meaning they must win the two-legged qualifier to secure their customary position in the Champions League league phase.
Progression would guarantee a starting payment worth €505,000 before further performance bonuses.
Bompastor has already reiterated Chelsea’s ambition to challenge for every trophy, but the three absences reduce her options before an important opening leg.
Chelsea Women vs Real Sociedad kicks off at 6.45pm. The match will be streamed free through Chelsea’s official website and app.
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