Enzo Maresca Confirms Noni Madueke’s Injury Will Keep Him Out for “A While” After Chelsea’s Loss to Brighton

Chelsea winger Noni Madueke is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring injury in their 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Chelsea’s Injury Crisis Deepens: Noni Madueke Faces Extended Time on the Sidelines

Chelsea’s already difficult season took another blow on Friday night, with winger Noni Madueke limping off early in their 3-0 defeat to Brighton. Madueke pulled up after a burst of pace down the right wing just 21 minutes into the match, clutching his hamstring and signaling he could not continue.

Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the severity of the injury post-match, revealing that Madueke will likely be out for a significant period. “Noni unfortunately has a hamstring problem and will be out for a while,” Maresca stated, adding to the disappointment of an already difficult evening for Chelsea.

Maresca Offers Hope for Malo Gusto, But Chelsea’s Attacking Options Remain Limited

While Chelsea’s injury woes continue to mount, there was some positive news about right-back Malo Gusto, who left the field in the second half with a knock. Maresca reassured fans, saying, “Malo is okay,” but the bigger concern lies in Chelsea’s attacking depth.

With Madueke joining Nicolas Jackson and Marcu Guiu in the treatment room, and Mykhailo Mudryk suspended, Chelsea’s attacking options are severely restricted. Jadon Sancho, Pedro Neto, and 19-year-old Tyrique George are now the only natural wingers available, and with no natural striker, Maresca’s squad is stretched thin. A false nine experiment with Christopher Nkunku and Cole Palmer failed to create any shots on target against Brighton, adding to the frustration.

What Does This Mean for Chelsea’s Upcoming Matches?

Chelsea’s attacking struggles are becoming more evident with each passing match. Can the Blues still find a way to get results with such limited resources? Fans are left wondering how Maresca will navigate these injuries and what changes he will make in his tactical approach.