Chelsea injury update: Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, Cole Palmer latest news and return dates

According to a report by London Evening Standard, Chelsea’s injury crisis shows no signs of easing despite the October international break, with head coach Enzo Maresca still contending with several fitness concerns ahead of the Blues’ Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest.

Midfielder Enzo Fernandez has become the latest player to join the injury list after withdrawing from the Argentina squad due to inflammation in his right knee. The extent of his injury remains unclear, and he is being assessed at Cobham.

Cole Palmer is also unavailable, with the playmaker still recovering from a persistent groin problem that has troubled him throughout the season. Maresca had indicated that Palmer would return after the international break, but the forward is now expected to remain sidelined until November. He could miss upcoming fixtures against Ajax, Wolves, and Tottenham.

Moises Caicedo, who has been managing a knock, was left out of Ecuador’s friendlies against the United States and Mexico. His condition is not considered serious, and he could be fit to feature against Forest.

Chelsea captain Reece James was another withdrawal from international duty after sustaining a minor issue during the 2-1 win over Liverpool. His absence is believed to be precautionary, and he is expected to return this weekend.

Defender Benoit Badiashile, who recently returned from a three-month layoff, also suffered a minor setback before the break but is likely to be available. Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos have both been dealing with knocks and were omitted from Brazil’s October squad, while their recoveries are being closely monitored.

Wesley Fofana is nearing a comeback after suffering a concussion in the Carabao Cup win over Lincoln City and should return once he completes the necessary protocols. Tosin Adarabioyo, who picked up a calf injury before the international break, is expected to rejoin the squad soon.

In longer-term absences, Dario Essugo remains out following thigh surgery sustained in early September and is not expected to return until early 2026. Liam Delap continues to recover from a hamstring tear, while Levi Colwill remains sidelined after undergoing surgery on an ACL injury suffered during pre-season, ruling him out until spring 2026.

Potential return vs Nottingham Forest (October 18): Reece James, Moises Caicedo, Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, Joao Pedro.