Key Takeaways:
- Estevao Willian has been ruled out of Chelsea’s fixture at Newcastle on Sunday due to a muscle injury
- Manager Enzo Maresca has not confirmed when the Brazilian winger will be available to return
- Several Chelsea players, including Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill, have contended with significant injuries this season
Injury Crisis Deepens Ahead of Festive Fixtures
Chelsea will travel to St James’ Park on Sunday without 18-year-old winger Estevao Willian, who has been sidelined by a muscle problem. The Brazilian was initially expected to participate in the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Cardiff, but did not feature after suffering the injury and remained in London.
🚨 🏥 Enzo Maresca on Estevao: “Small problem, muscle problem, he won't be available for Newcastle. We will see for the next one.” pic.twitter.com/8Mc8jRtc51
— ChelsTransfer (@ChelsTransfer) December 16, 2025
Estevao’s absence adds to an already extensive injury list for the Blues, with manager Enzo Maresca unable to provide a timeline for his recovery. “He had a small problem, a muscle problem. He won’t be available for Newcastle,” Maresca stated following the recent victory over Cardiff.
Key Players Missing from Squad
The squad has been impacted by multiple injuries this campaign. Cole Palmer, described regularly by Maresca as their standout performer, continues to deal with a groin issue and was absent for the Cardiff match. Defender Levi Colwill ruptured his ACL on the opening day of a shortened pre-season, following Chelsea’s Club World Cup involvement, and remains out of action.
Liam Delap, another summer acquisition, has managed only six starts this term as he battles injury setbacks. In addition, Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Joao Pedro have all been managing muscle injuries while still contributing to the team during a congested run of fixtures.
| Player | Injury | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Estevao Willian | Muscle problem | Ruled out vs Newcastle |
| Cole Palmer | Groin injury | Not in squad vs Cardiff |
| Levi Colwill | Ruptured ACL | Long-term absence |
| Liam Delap | Shoulde Injury | 6 starts this season |
| Moises Caicedo | Muscle issue | Playing through injury |
| Enzo Fernandez | Muscle issue | Playing through injury |
| Joao Pedro | Muscle issue | Playing through injury |
Estevao’s Impact and Background
Despite only joining Chelsea this summer, Estevao has already made a notable impression at Stamford Bridge, scoring five goals and providing one assist so far this season. While he did not participate in the Club World Cup as a Chelsea player, he did represent Palmeiras in the competition before his transfer.
Looking Ahead
With Chelsea scheduled to play three matches over a ten-day period during the festive season, Maresca will need to manage his resources carefully amidst ongoing injury concerns. The club will be hoping for positive updates on their sidelined players as they navigate a demanding run of fixtures.
