Blues, despite their injuries, embark on a journey to Amsterdam for the Europa League final
Chelsea's preparations for the Europa League final against Benfica in Amsterdam are being tested by a series of injuries to key players. The most significant absence will be that of Millie Bright, the team's captain, who is recovering from knee surgery and will not feature in the tournament.
Injuries have also sidelined John Terry and Eden Hazard, both of whom picked up ankle and hamstring issues respectively during the Barclays Premier League win at Aston Villa. Terry's injury could lead to further continental disappointment for the defender, who missed last season's Champions League final win in Munich due to suspension.
Chelsea's squad depth, however, offers some options. Players like Gabriel Slonina, Filip Jörgensen, Robert Sánchez, and younger players such as Nathan Ake may be considered as replacements depending on the position.
The loss of Eden Hazard would be more significantly felt, as Chelsea pursue back-to-back European trophies. Ba's ineligibility means Fernando Torres is likely to start up front, having scored five goals in five Europa League matches so far.
John Obi Mikel's hip problem creates further concern for Chelsea, with Frank Lampard a potential inclusion if Mikel is ruled out. In all likelihood, if Lampard is included, he will captain the team.
The position of central defence is competitive for Chelsea, with David Luiz, Gary Cahill, Branislav Ivanovic, and Terry as options. The versatile Paulo Ferreira, a Portugal full-back, travelled for the match against his countrymen, but is unlikely to feature.
Despite the injuries, Chelsea have taken a 25-man playing party for the match at the Amsterdam ArenA, which includes young talents like Ake. The club may need to rely on less experienced or younger squad members, given that many Chelsea players are currently involved in international tournaments, such as the Women's Euro 2025, which may affect their availability or fitness for the final.
The club’s management will likely call upon fit senior players or promising talents from the broader squad to cover for the injured players, ensuring that Chelsea can field a competitive team for the Europa League final.
The absence of John Terry and Eden Hazard, who suffered ankle and hamstring issues respectively, further complicates Chelsea's sports team as they prepare for the Europa League final against Benfica. With Millie Bright and other key players already out due to injuries, the squad depth comes into play, and football players like Gabriel Slonina, Filip Jörgensen, Robert Sánchez, or Nathan Ake may be called upon to fill the gaps.
