Chelsea Faces Major Challenge with Eight Key Players Out Before Champions League Showdown Against Ajax
Chelsea faces a significant challenge as they prepare to face Ajax in the Champions League. The Blues will be missing eight key players for this critical match, which is also a milestone, marking their 200th game in the competition.
Chelsea’s Key Player Absences
The club’s injury list includes:
- Cole Palmer (groin)
- Mykhaylo Mudryk (doping ban)
- Levi Colwill (ACL)
- Dario Essugo (thigh)
- Benoît Badiashile (muscle)
- Liam Delap (hamstring)
Additionally, Enzo Fernández is doubtful due to a knee issue, while Moisés Caicedo only managed to play one half against Nottingham Forest.
Ajax’s Recent Performance
Ajax, managed by Enzo Maresca, has also faced challenges in the Champions League. After losing 3-1 to Bayern Munich, they secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Benfica, a team coached by former Chelsea manager José Mourinho.
In their current Champions League campaign, Ajax has struggled, suffering heavy defeats to Inter Milan and Marseille. They are yet to score in these matches. In the Eredivisie, however, they sit third in the table, holding an unbeaten record with four wins and four draws despite recent setbacks, including a 3-3 draw against Sparta Rotterdam and a 2-0 loss to AZ Alkmaar.
Historical Context
This match marks the third meeting between Chelsea and Ajax. Their last encounter in November 2019 ended in a thrilling 4-4 draw. Historically, Chelsea has the upper hand, winning one and drawing another in their previous clashes. Ajax has never managed to defeat the Blues.
Match Details
The highly anticipated match is set for kick-off at 20:00 BST and will be broadcast live on TNT Sports in the UK. As Chelsea looks to secure a victory, they aim to leverage their recent Premier League form, including wins against Liverpool and Nottingham Forest.
