In a recent report, it has been revealed that Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has come to an agreement with one of his players regarding their playing time. The player in question will not feature more than once a week for the team.
After suffering a defeat in their opening weekend match against Manchester City, Chelsea has managed to climb up to fourth place in the Premier League standings. With fixtures in the EFL Cup and Conference League to manage as well, Maresca is pleased with the efforts of his new squad.
The team has made significant signings, and two players have made their comeback from long-term injuries. Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia are among those who have returned, with Fofana missing the entirety of last season and Lavia making just one substitute appearance.
Fofana, in particular, will have his match action limited. According to reports from L’Equipe, he will not be considered for two matches in a single week. Despite his impressive performances in the Premier League this season, Fofana will be rested for EFL Cup ties and will not play in the remaining Conference League games before the end of 2024.
Maresca has developed a fondness for Fofana, who is seen as the preferred choice in the team’s defense. However, the upcoming fixtures present a dilemma for the manager as Fofana will be unavailable for the next Premier League match against Liverpool due to suspension. This means he will have to wait until the game against Newcastle United on October 27 to get back on the field.
Currently away on international duty with France, Fofana was an unused substitute in their recent victory over Israel in the UEFA Nations League. Despite his absence from club matches, Fofana continues to impress both at the domestic and international level.