Maxence Lacroix - General
Chelsea are facing a defensive concern after Maxence Lacroix suffered a serious hamstring injury during their Carabao Cup defeat by Liverpool. The France international could be out until January.
Maxence Lacroix injury raises concern at Chelsea
As reported by BBC Sport, Lacroix could be out until January and may miss up to 10 matches. Chelsea have not confirmed that return date, but manager Xabi Alonso has said the defender will be out for several weeks.
The Frenchman picked up the injury during Chelsea’s Carabao Cup defeat against Liverpool. He went down while trying to block a shot towards the end of the first half. He could not continue and was later assessed by the club’s medical staff. Lacroix has been a regular choice since joining Chelsea from Crystal Palace. He has started 10 of the club’s 11 matches in all competitions this season. His pace and strength have made him an important part of Alonso’s defence.
Speaking before the Manchester United game, Alonso said Lacroix was not expected to return before the international break. The manager did not give a fixed date for his comeback. Chelsea will now have to manage his recovery without rushing him back.
Lacroix’s Crystal Palace stats for the 2025/26 season, as per FOTMOB:
Competition Appearances Defensive Contributions Duels Won(% Interceptions
Premier League 35 375 61.3% 45
EFL Cup 3 41 66.7% 3
Conference League 14 97 55.6% 12
Xabi Alonso weighs up Chelsea’s centre-back options
Chelsea have several players who can step into central defence. Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill are among the main options. Young defender Josh Acheampong could also get more chances if the injury list grows. Alonso has spoken positively about Fofana. The defender missed his penalty in the shootout against Liverpool, but the manager was pleased with his overall display. He praised Fofana’s strength and consistency during the match.
Acheampong is another player the manager can use in central defence. The youngster has shown promise, and this could be a chance to take on more responsibility. However, Alonso will need to decide how much pressure to place on him during a busy run of fixtures.
Chelsea also have Jorrel Hato and Aaron Anselmino in their wider defensive group. Their fitness will be important as the club looks for cover. Having more players available would give Alonso greater choice and help him rotate the team. The manager must also think about how his defenders work together. A new centre-back partnership needs time to build an understanding.
Maxence Lacroix - General
Chelsea move into fourth after Manchester United win
Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge gave the team a lift. Morgan Rogers scored the opener in the 50th minute with a solo effort. Cole Palmer then scored from the penalty spot in the 64th minute after Lisandro Martinez was sent off.
The result moved Chelsea into fourth place with 16 points from nine matches. They are now above Liverpool, who have played one game fewer. It was an important result for Alonso after the team’s recent setbacks.
The win also showed that Chelsea can find a way through difficult moments. Manchester United had chances in the first half, but Chelsea improved after the break. They took their opportunities and controlled much of the closing stages.
However, Lacroix’s absence could still test the squad. Chelsea have upcoming Premier League fixtures to manage, and Alonso will need his available defenders to stay fit. The club cannot afford to lose more players in the same position. His recovery will be important as the west London football club look to stay in the top four.