Chelsea will be without two key players when they face Arsenal in Sunday’s Premier League showdown at the Emirates Stadium, manager Liam Rosenior has confirmed.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Rosenior disclosed that Brazilian winger Willian and Spanish defender Marc Cucurella will miss the crucial encounter due to injuries.
According to the Chelsea boss, Willian picked up a hamstring injury during a training session, while Cucurella suffered a similar setback in the Blues’ recent fixture against Leeds United.
“Estevao will be out for a little while longer, and Jamie Gittens is making progress in his rehabilitation. Unfortunately, Cucu is not available on Sunday,” Rosenior said.
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The absence of the duo is a setback for Chelsea as they prepare for one of their toughest tests of the season against title-chasing Arsenal.
Chelsea currently sit fifth in the Premier League table after 27 matches, as they push for a strong finish and a potential Champions League qualification spot.
Arsenal, meanwhile, head into the fixture in commanding form. The Gunners top the league standings with 61 points from 28 games and will be looking to extend their advantage at the summit with a win on home soil.
Sunday’s clash is expected to have significant implications at both ends of the table, with Arsenal aiming to strengthen their title bid and Chelsea seeking to close the gap on the top four despite their mounting injury concerns.