Chelsea’s growing injury woes have deepened after Enzo Fernández was forced to withdraw from Argentina’s national team due to swelling in his right knee.

The midfielder, who has been crucial for Enzo Maresca’s side this season, left the Albiceleste camp and is en route back to London for assessment and treatment.

Fernández, who has scored three goals this campaign, joint-top with Moises Caicedo, was initially expected to sit out Argentina’s upcoming friendly against Puerto Rico.

However, the latest development raises doubts over his availability for Chelsea’s Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest next Saturday.

Key players on recovery path

While Fernández’s injury compounds Maresca’s selection headache, Chelsea may receive a timely boost as several players move closer to full fitness.

Joao Pedro, Reece James, Cole Palmer, and Caicedo are all benefiting from a two-week rest period, while Romeo Lavia and Wesley Fofana could return to action against Forest.

Lavia, who was pictured in training this week, is being carefully managed, with the club adopting a similar approach to James to avoid relapse.

Squad rotation options

Should Fernández be ruled out, fellow Argentine Facundo Buonanotte is expected to fill the midfield void. Maresca could also deploy Caicedo alongside Lavia or James in a reshuffled setup.

Meanwhile, Trevoh Chalobah will return from suspension, with Tosin Adarabioyo, Andrey Santos, and potentially Palmer also set to rejoin the matchday squad this month.

Maresca suspended for Forest trip

Adding to Chelsea’s mounting challenges, manager Enzo Maresca will be absent from the touchline against Forest after receiving a second yellow card for his exuberant celebrations during Estevão’s last-minute winner against Liverpool.

Assistant coach Willy Caballero will assume managerial duties for the fixture as the Blues look to stabilize amid an injury-hit start to the season.