Chelsea’s Colwill, Fernandez May Return for Man City Clash; Lavia Sidelined

LONDON, England — Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has revealed that Levi Colwill and Enzo Fernandez could be available for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, while Romeo Lavia faces an extended spell on the sidelines.

Colwill and Fernandez missed Chelsea’s 3-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday due to minor injuries but are set to participate in training at Cobham on Friday. ‘Probably Levi and Enzo could be ready [to feature against Man City],’ Maresca told reporters. ‘It depends on today’s session.’

However, Lavia, who was substituted early in Chelsea’s 2-2 draw against AFC Bournemouth 10 days ago, will miss the match and is expected to be out for ‘a few weeks more,’ according to Maresca. The 21-year-old midfielder has struggled with injuries since joining Chelsea, missing significant time last season with ankle and hamstring issues.

Chelsea will also welcome back Cole Palmer, who played 84 minutes against Wolves despite an ankle knock. Palmer, a former Manchester City academy graduate, is fit to face his former club. ‘He is better,’ Maresca said. ‘He did an unbelievable effort to play against Wolves, and he is getting better.’

Manchester City, currently fifth in the Premier League, are coming off a 4-2 Champions League loss to Paris Saint-Germain despite leading 2-0 early in the second half. However, they have shown signs of recovery in the league, going unbeaten in their last five matches after a poor run in November and December.

Maresca, who previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, dismissed the idea that now is an opportune time to face the reigning champions. ‘I don’t believe in these kind of things,’ he said. ‘With this club and these players, when they are in a difficult moment, it is when they want to show how good they are.’

Chelsea, currently fourth in the league, are two points ahead of City. Maresca emphasized his team’s readiness for the challenge. ‘For sure, we are going to try to win tomorrow,’ he said.

The match will be a reunion for Maresca and Guardiola, who have maintained a strong professional relationship. Maresca was part of City’s coaching staff during their historic treble-winning 2022-23 season and previously managed their Elite Development Squad.

As Chelsea prepare for the high-stakes encounter, Maresca expressed confidence in his squad’s depth. ‘I think we have enough players to cover that situation,’ he said, referring to the midfield. ‘The intention is not to go for one more midfielder.’