Maresca dealt huge blow as Chelsea summer signing is ruled out until 2026

Chelsea dealt huge blow as summer signing is ruled out until 2026

Chelsea summer signing Dario Essugo has been ruled out for three months with a thigh problem.

Essugo was brought in from Sporting Lisbon in June and was reportedly a back-up for Moises Caicedo for manager Enzo Maresca, who looked to bring more squad depth to the club.0

The midfielder has made three appearances since making the move, with all three coming in the Club World Cup. However, he will be sidelined for some time as The Athletic report that Essugo will be ruled out for some time.0

The report states that he will be absent for a minimum of 12 weeks after having an operation on a thigh injury, meaning he may not be available for selection until 2026.0

Essugo posted on Instagram after picking up the knock: “Unfortunately, during this international break with the national team I felt something in my thigh that will keep me out for a while. It’s frustrating to start the season like this, but I truly believe everything happens for a reason. I’ll be back stronger.”0

Thankfully for The Blues, Cole Palmer will return in the next few weeks and if he can stay fit then the loss of Essugo will not be so great. This is the third significant injury Chelsea have sustained at the beginning of the campaign which also includes Levi Colwill as things go from bad to worse for Maresca.0