Chelsea’s hopes for the upcoming season seem a bit dampened as young defender Wesley Fofana faces an extended spell on the sidelines, News About Nigeria confirms.
A statement on the club’s website reveals that Fofana has undergone an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery. The devastating news was confirmed as the team prepared for their pre-season tour in America.
The 22-year-old will undoubtedly will be missed and the Blues head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, expressed his sadness over the situation.
“It’s really sad, really bad news. We feel all so sad. All we can do is help him,” Pochettino stated during a pre-match press conference ahead of a friendly against Wrexham in Chapel Hill today (Wednesday).
While Fofana’s absence will be felt by the team, Pochettino remains determined to face the challenges that lie ahead.
“We need to keep going. The competition is Chelsea’s Pre-Season Plans Disrupted as Fofana Suffers ACL Injurythere, in one month we start, it doesn’t wait for anyone and we need to be ready to compete,” he added, emphasizing the importance of staying focused and prepared despite the setback.
As the squad gears up for the pre-season match against Wrexham in North Carolina, the news of Fofana’s injury has brought forth an outpouring of support from the team members.
Marc Cucurella, speaking after Pochettino, also expressed his concern and hopes for Fofana’s swift recovery.
He said, “We hope everything goes well in his recovery, and as soon as possible, he can be ready before the end of the season.”
Fofana’s absence will leave a void in Chelseea’s defense, given the absence of César Azpilicueta who has now joined Atletico Madrid.
Meanwhile, the club remains committed, having been stocked with talented players across the pitch.
Pochettino is expected to use the pre-season period to assess the team’s strengths and adapt to the situation, ensuring that they are prepared for the start of the 2023/24 domestic and European seasons.
