A muscle problem will sideline Chelsea’s promising young forward, Estevao, for their crucial Premier League match against Newcastle. The news casts a slight shadow over an otherwise positive result for the Blues, who secured their place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals with a 3-1 victory over Cardiff.
Estevao’s absence was immediately noticeable during Tuesday night’s match, where he wasn’t included in the squad. The 18-year-old has quickly become a fan favorite, demonstrating impressive skill and contributing significantly to the team with five goals and an assist in just 21 appearances.
Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the injury, stating Estevao won’t be fit to face Newcastle, but his recovery will be monitored for subsequent matches. This setback adds to the team’s challenges, as midfielder Moises Caicedo is also facing a suspension for the first leg of the semi-final due to a booking for dissent.
Chelsea’s victory in Cardiff was fueled by impactful substitutions. Alejandro Garnacho scored a second-half brace, and Pedro Neto also found the net after being introduced at halftime, turning the tide of the game.
Maresca was effusive in his praise for the players who came off the bench, highlighting their contribution to a tricky away match. He emphasized the importance of maintaining fitness and providing opportunities for squad members who haven’t seen regular playing time.
The manager acknowledged the difficulty of breaking down a well-organized and intense Cardiff side, particularly in the first half. He noted the team’s improved performance off the ball in the second half, though creating scoring chances remained a challenge.
Beyond the on-field performance, Maresca expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of Chelsea’s travelling fans. He was visibly moved by their chants of his name, acknowledging their dedication and emphasizing that reaching the semi-finals was a reward for their loyalty.
Maresca described the moment as a “great moment” and reiterated his appreciation for the fans’ consistent support. The team now awaits the draw to discover their semi-final opponents, aiming to continue their cup run and deliver further success for their devoted fanbase.
