Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has urged the club to sign a new centre-back following the long-term injury to Levi Colwill, who is expected to miss most of the season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained in training.
Colwill’s absence leaves Chelsea short of options in central defence, with Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah set to start in Sunday’s Premier League opener against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking on Friday, Maresca stressed the importance of finding cover for the 22-year-old England international, describing him as crucial to Chelsea’s playing style.
“You know how important Levi has been for us last season, for the way we want to play,” Maresca said. “We are trying to find a solution internally, but the club know exactly what I think. I believe we need a central defender.”
The Italian has been linked with a move for Benfica’s Antonio Silva, but he insisted Chelsea would weigh their options carefully before the transfer window closes.
“We have a fantastic squad, no doubt, but when the window is open, anything can happen,” he added.
Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Arne Slot has described Chelsea as title contenders this season, but Maresca dismissed talk of “mind games.”
“I don’t pay attention to what other people say about us,” he remarked. “I prefer to stay focused on improving the players rather than engaging in these games.”
Chelsea head into the new campaign fresh from their FIFA Club World Cup triumph, with Maresca insisting the squad is ready despite a short pre-season break.
“We guess we are ready,” he said. “It has been quite a short break, but we will try to be ready.”
Written By Rodney Mbua
