Noni Madueke sidelined for six Chelsea matches due to injury

Chelsea winger Noni Madueke will miss the next six games due to a hamstring injury sustained during a 3-0 defeat to Brighton. This injury adds to the club's challenges as they are already without forwards Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu, leaving head coach Enzo Maresca with limited attacking options. Madueke is expected to be sidelined until after the international break, meaning he will miss key matches against Aston Villa, Southampton, Leicester City, Arsenal, and both legs of the Conference League last-16 fixtures. Despite the setbacks, Chelsea's management remains hopeful that Madueke's injury is not severe and he won't be out for an extended period. Chelsea's recent form has been poor, with only two wins in their last nine league games, prompting concerns about their Champions League qualifying hopes. The club director publicly backed Maresca, emphasizing confidence in his leadership amid the current struggles.