Chelsea Star Benoit Badiashile to Miss Carabao Cup Final Against Liverpool Due to Fresh Injury Setback
Chelsea’s hopes of winning the Carabao Cup have suffered a blow as key central defender Benoit Badiashile has been ruled out for a month with a groin injury. The Frenchman picked up the injury during Chelsea’s 3-1 FA Cup win over Aston Villa last Wednesday. Initially, it was hoped to be a minor problem, but scans revealed that Badiashile will face another lengthy spell on the sidelines.
This injury setback is a blow to Chelsea’s already depleted back line, as Badiashile has already missed 14 games in all competitions this season. The 22-year-old will be unavailable for Monday’s game against Crystal Palace and, more crucially, the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool on February 25. Badiashile had been an important part of Mauricio Pochettino’s side, starting three of the last four games and forming a new partnership with Axel Disasi.
The absence of Badiashile leaves Pochettino with a selection dilemma. Thiago Silva, who was dropped from the team following a poor performance against Wolves, may come straight back into the team. However, Pochettino may also consider Levi Colwill, who is close to full fitness following his latest injury. The Argentine manager revealed in a pre-match press conference that they would have to wait until Sunday to see if Colwill is available. Meanwhile, Trever Chalobah is back in training but not yet ready for first-team action.
Despite the setback, Chelsea will still be aiming to move back inside the top half of the Premier League table with a win against Crystal Palace. On the other hand, Palace will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing 4-1 loss to Brighton and ease the pressure on boss Roy Hodgson.
Badiashile’s injury comes at a time when he had been receiving praise for his performances. Former Chelsea legend Cesc Fabregas even named him as one of the best young ball-playing defenders in Europe. Chelsea will have to find a way to cope without him for the next month, and his absence will be sorely felt in the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool.
In the world of football, injuries are an unfortunate reality that teams have to deal with. The timing of Badiashile’s injury couldn’t have been worse for Chelsea, as they prepare for a crucial cup final. However, football is a team sport, and Chelsea will have to find a way to adapt without their key defender. The next month will test the depth of their squad and the resilience of their players.