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One out, one in? Chelsea boss Maresca provides anxious Caicedo and Essugo injury update

Moises Caicedo
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo - Photo: IMAGO
Enzo Maresca has explained why Moises Caicedo was withdrawn and why natural replacement Dario Essugo was not included in the Chelsea squad against Fluminense.
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Enzo Maresca has revealed what happened to Moises Caicedo in Chelsea’s 2-0 Club World Cup semi-final win over Fluminense on Tuesday. 

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The Ecuadorian filled supporters with dread as he writhed in pain in the closing stages of the Blues’ comfortable win over the Brazilian outfit, holding his knee. 

After trying to continue, the midfield general left the field again as Chelsea ended the match with 10 men.

Moises Caicedo
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo
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What Maresca said

Speaking after the game, Maresca explained why Caicedo, who started every Premier League game this season and only just returned from suspension at the Club World Cup, had to come off, and he seemed hopeful for Sunday’s final. 

However, the Italian did not have such good news regarding Dario Essugo, who was not part of the group on Tuesday. 

Dario Essugo
Dario Essugo (left) is unlikely to play for Chelsea in the Club World Cup final (Credit: Imago)
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“Dario had a muscle problem yesterday during the session, probably he is now going to be ready for next season,” the Italian explained.

“Moi, twisted his ankle. When it happened, I told him, because there were just two or three minutes to go, that we could finish with 10 players. It's important that we don't get too worked up because we have a game on Sunday.

“He said he would try, but he felt pain. So, hopefully, he can be fit for Sunday.”

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What’s next for Chelsea?

After beating Fluminense in Tuesday’s semi-final, Chelsea will face PSG or Real Madrid in the Club World Cup final. 

The final will be played on July 13.

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