Chelsea Hit by Fresh Injury Crisis as Maresca Delivers Devastating News Ahead of Villa Clash

Chelsea will be missing defender Jorrel Hato for Saturday's clash with Aston Villa, as confirmed by Blues manager Enzo Maresca.

Hato arrived from Ajax during the summer transfer window for an initial £35.5 million ($47.9 million) fee as Chelsea looked for flexible backup to the ever-reliable Marc Cucurella, though the 19-year-old has struggled to establish himself at Stamford Bridge.

The Dutch defender has managed only four Premier League outings this season and hasn't featured in league action since early October's opening weekend.

Hato's spell on the sidelines will extend further after Maresca revealed the young defender sustained an injury that will keep him out of the Villa encounter.

"Hato picked up an injury during the Newcastle warm-up, at the interval," Maresca informed club media. "He won't be available [for Villa's visit to Stamford Bridge]."

However, Maresca delivered encouraging updates for supporters, particularly regarding winger Jamie Gittens, whose omission from the Newcastle matchday roster caused considerable concern among the fanbase.

"Jamie wasn't included in the squad [against Newcastle] because he experienced a shoulder issue during our final training session the day prior," the Blues manager clarified. "He's recovered now and will be available for Villa."

Cole Palmer Ready to Play 90 Minutes

The Blues will also see the return of winger Estêvão and striker Liam Delap from their respective injuries—with Delap recovering from his shoulder issue faster than anticipated—but the most encouraging development concerns star player Cole Palmer's fitness.

A groin problem, subsequently followed by a fractured toe, has sidelined Palmer for nearly two months this season, though he has been steadily increasing his playing time since returning earlier this month.

"I believe he's prepared for a full 90 minutes, yes," Maresca confirmed. "A player's development follows stages: 45 minutes, an hour, 70 minutes...

"He already completed an hour against Everton, I believe. He played over 70 minutes versus Newcastle. The progression is clearly evident."

Palmer has already generated anticipation for Saturday's fixture through social media. Chelsea shared video of a spectacular strike from the 23-year-old during 2024's home match against Villa, prompting the characteristically self-assured midfielder to respond: "Run it back."