Football Preview | Chelsea boss issues updates ahead of Brighton match

Chelsea v Brighton & Hove Albion Preview

Enzo Maresca has been talking to the press ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League match against Brighton.

Author | Lewis W

Stadium | Stamford Bridge

They will be hoping to recover from last weekend’s defeat against Man United and put in a better performance than the midweek win over Lincoln City in the Carabao Cup.

Team News

While Maresca will be missing several players, he could see two return to his matchday squad.

Benoit Badiashile and Romeo Lavia have not played for Chelsea this season after sustaining injuries during the FIFA Club World Cup campaign, but the Italian coach says both are nearing a comeback and will be evaluated ahead of Brighton's visit. 

The manager explained: ‘Romeo and Benoit are better, we will see if they can join us tomorrow. Otherwise, it will be for the next game.’

The key talking points from the press conference

Enzo is here. Live updates to follow... #CFC ⬇️ https://t.co/jYMLZi3nye

— Bobby Vincent (@BobbyVincentFL) September 26, 2025

When discussing Cole Palmer's injury, he told the press: "Yes, we decided to protect a little bit Cole. In terms of not letting his injury getting worse.

"We decided to rest him for two-three weeks until the international break to see if with that rest he can recover 100% and to be fit after the international break.

"I don't think he needs surgery but it is just to manage the pain in his groin. We have decided to be a little bit conservative with him."

When talking about Robert Sanchez who was sent-off in last weekend’s defeat against Manchester United, he said: “The last part of last season and the beginning of this season he was fantastic."

View from the away end at Old Trafford

"He made a mistake against Manchester United and recognised that, I said many times that when a keeper makes a mistake or when a midfielder makes a mistake, it is exactly the same.

"We are happy with Robert, we are happy with Filip [Jorgensen], and there is not any problem with Robert."

On other fitness issues, he added: “Tosin is injured. He will probably be out until the international break, he has a small problem in his calf. Wes Fofana had concussion against Lincoln. The rest are okay."