Chelsea have been dealt an injury setback, with striker João Pedro expected to spend the next few weeks on the sidelines due to a thigh problem, head coach Xabi Alonso has confirmed.
The Brazilian forward missed Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday after picking up the injury. His absence is a concern for the Blues, given his impressive contribution to the team during the opening stages of the campaign.
Pedro has recorded five goals and three assists in seven appearances across all competitions this season, establishing himself as an important attacking option for Alonso’s side.
Speaking about the forward’s condition, Alonso confirmed that the injury would keep him out of action for several weeks, leaving Chelsea without one of their key attacking players during a demanding run of fixtures.
The Blues travel to Anfield on Wednesday to face Liverpool in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup before returning to Stamford Bridge to host Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday.
Chelsea will also face Sunderland before the November international break, making Pedro’s recovery timeline an important factor in Alonso’s plans for the coming weeks.
With several crucial matches approaching, Chelsea will hope the striker makes a smooth recovery and returns to action as soon as possible.
What do you think, Chelsea fans? How much will João Pedro’s absence affect the Blues in their upcoming matches?