Chelsea have been dealt another injury setback ahead of their crucial Club World Cup semi-final match against Brazilian side Fluminense on Tuesday.
During a pre-match press conference, manager Enzo Maresca confirmed that young Belgian midfielder Romeo Lavia will miss the game due to a muscle injury he sustained during Chelsea’s victory over Benfica in the Round of 16.
Lavia also missed the quarter-final encounter against Palmeiras and has yet to rejoin full training with the squad. “Romeo is training already but is unfortunately not training with us, so he is not ready for tomorrow,” Maresca told reporters.
The 21-year-old’s absence is a significant blow for Chelsea, as the team relies on his energy and control in midfield. The injury raises concerns about his fitness ahead of the final should Chelsea qualify by beating Fluminense.
The winner of the semi-final will advance to the final of the prestigious Club World Cup tournament, bringing both global prestige and silverware closer for the Blues.
Fans are hopeful that other key players remain fit as Chelsea look to end their Club World Cup campaign on a high note.
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