Chelsea have revealed that defender Levi Colwill has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in training.
Colwill returned to pre-season training on Monday with the rest of his Chelsea teammates following their success at the Club World Cup.
However, Maresca explained earlier on Thursday that Colwill had "felt something" in training and that the issue was a "problem" for the club.
Unfortunately for Maresca, his worst fears have now been realised because Chelsea have released a statement to confirm the extent of Colwill's injury.
Chelsea defender Levi Colwill in December 2024.
Chelsea confirm Colwill ACL injury
The statement read: "Defender Levi Colwill has today undergone successful surgery to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
"The 22-year-old had reported back to Cobham for pre-season at the start of this week, before unfortunately sustaining the injury in training.
"Medical assessments confirmed surgery would be the required course of action. Levi will now begin his recovery and be supported by the club's medical department at Cobham during his rehabilitation phase.
Colwill will leave a significant void in the Chelsea side, having made the left centre-back his own under Maresca's tutelage.
The Chelsea academy product featured in 44 competitive matches last term, including five appearances at the Club World Cup in the USA.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca pictured on June 28, 2025
Will Chelsea look to replace Colwill?
Colwill will now start the long rehabilitation process, with the defender set to miss the majority of the 2025-26 season.
While he may be out for an extended period, Fabrizio Romano is reporting that Chelsea have no immediate plans to sign a replacement.
The update claims that there is 'full trust' in the players at Maresca's disposal, especially as they **recently strengthened their backline**with the addition of Jorrel Hato.
The 19-year-old is capable of playing at centre-back and on the left side of defence, and as a left-footed defender, he seems like the obvious candidate to step up in Colwill's absence.
Maresca can also call upon Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah and Aaron Anselmino.
Renato Veiga and Axel Disasi are also part of the squad, but the pair are expected to leave before the end of the transfer window.
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