Chelsea Manager Enzo Maresca Addresses Squad Status

Ahead of Chelsea's FA Cup match against Morecambe, head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed that fringe players Ben Chilwell, Cesare Casadei, and Carney Chukwuemeka will not participate, citing potential transfers and injuries as reasons for their absence. Chilwell is reportedly considering leaving Chelsea, and Maresca wants to avoid risking injury ahead of any potential move. Meanwhile, the club is dealing with a defensive crisis, with Wesley Fofana expected to miss 12-16 weeks due to a hamstring injury, although he has expressed optimism about a quicker recovery. Maresca denied any imminent signings, stating interest in players like Marc Guéhi and Trevoh Chalobah but emphasizing they are not Chelsea players at the moment. He also reassured that Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has a future at the club despite limited playing time. The situation remains fluid as Chelsea navigates player availability and potential transfers this January.