Mauricio Pochettino said Chelsea’s medical and coaching staff are attempting to figure out why the team has been so afflicted by injuries, with up to 14 players expected to miss Thursday’s game against Tottenham.
Thiago Silva and Axel Disasi are the most recent additions to the squad, following Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa, which required the Chelsea manager to select five academy graduates aged 20 and under on the bench.
The Blues’ campaign has been severely hampered by the absence of key players, including some who were purchased at exorbitant prices as part of a £1 billion ($1.25 billion) transfer spree during the previous two years.
Notable absentees include Wesley Fofana, who has not played since undergoing surgery for an ACL injury, and attacker Christopher Nkunku, who has made only seven Premier League appearances.
Romeo Lavia has only appeared once for the club, and Reece James and Ben Chilwell have also spent significant time away from the mid-table outfit.
Last Monday, it was reported that Enzo Fernandez, who signed for a then-British record £105 million in January 2023, will not play again this season due to a hernia procedure.
“Too many circumstances have happened,” Pochettino said on the eve of Chelsea’s match against his former club, who are in fifth spot in the table.
“It’s difficult to explain with one word or in one sentence. Of course we are working on trying to improve. We have an amazing staff — medical staff, coaching staff. They have experience in managing clubs and being in this business.
“When some circumstances arrive, sometimes it can happen. We need to now, until the end of the season, put all the information on the table and try to be better next season.
“We need to improve in communication, dynamics, strategy. Everything to do with our knowledge to improve and coordinate better.”
Pochettino paid tribute to veteran Brazilian defender Silva, 39, who is leaving the club at the end of the season after a four-year stay.
“He’s an amazing guy and amazing professional,” said Pochettino. “Playing until nearly 40 years old is an amazing career.
“Of course the players, the fans and club are going to miss him. But he’s happy, he’s so proud of his career here at Chelsea. We wish him the best because he deserves the best.”