Enzo Maresca was reportedly left fuming after Chelsea lost 3-0 to an under-21 side during a training session at Cobham on Wednesday.
March 28, 2025 " rel="nofollow" target="_self">Donell McNeilly scored twice while Chizzy Ezenwata also got on the scoresheet. Given the absences of several players during the international break, it is unclear which players featured.
However, the likes of Malo Gusto, Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, Romeo Lavia, Jadon Sancho and Christopher Nkunku are likely to have been in action after remaining at Cobham during the break. Nicolas Jackson, Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke are working their way to full fitness.
Nonetheless, the defeat saw Maresca reportedly cancel a planned day off for the senior players on Thursday.
Eight players linked up with their respective national teams this month. Enzo Fernandez, Filip Jorgensen, Moises Caicedo, Levi Colwill, Reece James, Pedro Neto, Marc Cucurella, Lucas Bergstrom are all set to return to west London this weekend.
In addition, Maresca was given a major boost with Jackson returning to training this week after being out for six weeks with a hamstring injury.
A statement read: "Among them is striker Nicolas Jackson, who was on the grass today, and is one of those Maresca had previously stated he hoped would be close to a comeback after this international break.'
He sustained the issue in the 2-1 win over West Ham at Stamford Bridge on February 3.
The Blues will have a few more days to prepare for the important home clash with Tottenham next Thursday (April 3).
However, it's unclear whether he will be available to face Spurs. Cole Palmer meanwhile, also returned to training after being left out for the entire international break with an injury.
As the international break draws to a close, Maresca has sent a strong message to supporters. Taking to Instagram, he wrote: "The hard work never stops — even during international weeks.
Fourth in the Premier League, quarter finals of the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. Together with our fans all over the world. Let’s Keep The Blue Flag Flying High!"
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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