Chelsea summer signing Dario Essugo may not return to action until January following a thigh injury sustained on international duty, according to BBC Sport. The 20-year-old, who joined from Sporting Lisbon in an £18 million deal, underwent surgery last month and was initially expected to be sidelined for 12 weeks but recovery timelines now suggest a longer absence.
Essugo was signed to provide cover for Moisés Caicedo and offer depth in defensive midfield. He featured during the Club World Cup but has yet to make his Premier League debut, having only been named on the bench in the opening three games of the season. His setback leaves Chelsea light in a key area heading into a demanding winter schedule.
Dario Essugo injury forces midfield reshuffle
The Portuguese midfielder’s injury, picked up while representing the Portugal U21s, is more serious than initially feared. With no return expected before January, Chelsea will now have to manage without their primary backup to Caicedo for several more months.
The club’s midfield depth helps mitigate the issue, but it also increases the workload on Caicedo, who has already been central to Enzo Maresca’s plans this season. With multiple competitions on the horizon, rotation will be key and Essugo’s absence removes a valuable option for those plans.
Romeo Lavia return offers timely boost for Maresca
The return of Romeo Lavia has come at a crucial time for Chelsea. The Belgian midfielder impressed in his comeback appearance against Liverpool and will be expected to take on more responsibility during Essugo’s absence. However, after his own injury struggles, Lavia’s minutes will need to be managed carefully.
Chelsea have dealt with similar fitness issues across the squad, most notably with Reece James and Wesley Fofana, and Maresca will be cautious not to overextend Lavia too soon. Still, his availability eases pressure on the midfield, with Andrey Santos also part of the mix.
Dario Essugo injury highlights Chelsea’s long-term planning
Essugo’s setback is a personal blow as he looks to establish himself in the Premier League. With competition for places high, his return in the new year will need to be sharp if he’s to break into a side pushing for domestic and European honours. In the meantime, his recovery will be closely monitored at Cobham.
For Chelsea, the injury underlines the importance of depth and may influence future midfield decisions heading into 2026 if over-reliance on key players becomes a recurring theme.
