Chelsea Suffer Injury Setback as Maresca Confirms Lavia and Badiashile Out of West Ham Clash

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Romeo Lavia and Benoit Badiashile will miss Friday night’s Premier League clash against West Ham United due to injury.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Thursday, the Italian revealed that Tosin Adarabioyo and Wesley Fofana will, however, be available for selection as the Blues travel to the London Stadium.

“Tosin is available for tomorrow,” Maresca told reporters. “I’m a little bit surprised because last week when he was not available, the day before it was everywhere [in the media] that he was not available. Now I don’t know why you don’t know he is available! But yes, he is available.

“Romeo is still out [and won’t play in this game]. Benoit is still out. Wes is back, as I said, and that’s all.”

Chelsea head into the fixture after being held to a frustrating 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace, while West Ham are reeling from a 3-0 defeat to Sunderland. Kick-off is set for 8 p.m. Nigerian time.

Opinion

For Chelsea fans, Maresca’s injury update is a mixed bag. Losing Romeo Lavia and Benoit Badiashile is certainly a blow, especially with the need for midfield control and defensive solidity in a tough away fixture. Lavia has been seen as a key part of Chelsea’s midfield future, but his recurring injuries have stalled what should have been a breakthrough season. Badiashile’s absence, meanwhile, leaves the Blues with fewer options in a backline that still struggles for consistency.

On the bright side, the return of Wesley Fofana is massive. Chelsea have badly missed his pace, recovery runs, and leadership at the back. If he can stay fit, he could be the missing piece to bring stability to their defense. Tosin Adarabioyo’s availability also gives Maresca another reliable option, which will be crucial against a physical West Ham side.

This game could prove to be more than just a London derby—it’s a test of Chelsea’s resilience. The Blues have shown glimpses of Maresca’s tactical identity but are yet to find the ruthlessness needed to climb the table. With West Ham licking their wounds from a heavy defeat, the onus is on Chelsea to pounce, grab three points, and build momentum.

If Chelsea truly want to be taken seriously this season, games like this are the ones they cannot afford to let slip.