Chelsea have suffered a huge pre-season setback with the confirmation that 22-year-old defender Levi Colwill has undergone surgery on an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. This serious knee issue, which occurred during his first pre-season training session, is expected to sideline him for the majority of the 2025/26 season — a devastating blow to Enzo Maresca’s tactical plans.
The England international had just returned to Cobham for pre-season after helping Chelsea lift the Europa Conference League and secure a top-four Premier League finish last term. According to the club’s official statement, Colwill felt discomfort near the end of the session and was later diagnosed with an ACL tear that required immediate surgical intervention. The club emphasized their support for Colwill, stating he would undergo rehabilitation with the medical staff at Cobham.
This injury casts a dark cloud over what was meant to be a fresh chapter for Colwill under new head coach Maresca, who admitted uncertainty about the injury’s severity in its early stages. “He felt something… we needed to wait,” said the Italian. Unfortunately, that wait ended with some unwanted news.
Transfer Domino Effect: Will Chelsea Reignite Their Interest in Marc Guehi?
With Colwill ruled out for the foreseeable future, Chelsea could return to the transfer market — and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is already being tipped as a possible solution. Guehi, a former Chelsea academy product, was sold to Palace for £18 million in 2021 but remains highly regarded at Stamford Bridge.
Now 25 and entering the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park, Guehi is on the radar of several top clubs — including Liverpool and Newcastle United. But with Chelsea potentially desperate for a long-term replacement for Colwill, a dramatic Stamford Bridge return could be in the works.
This wouldn’t be the first time Chelsea have expressed interest in bringing Guehi back, and given his Premier League experience and familiarity with the club’s setup, he presents an ideal plug-and-play solution. That said, competition from Newcastle, who are also strengthening their backline this summer, could spark a heated transfer tussle.
Enzo Maresca Faces Early Squad Test: Defensive Depth Under the Microscope
Colwill’s injury has handed Maresca a challenge just weeks into his Chelsea tenure. While the Blues do have depth at centre-back — including Wesley Fofana, Benoît Badiashile, Axel Disasi, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Renato Veiga, and new signing Jorrel Hato — the loss of Colwill removes a left-footed, ball-playing defender who fits perfectly into Maresca’s build-from-the-back philosophy.
To add to the uncertainty, Fofana has only just returned from a long hamstring injury and is not yet match-fit. Maresca admitted that while Fofana is training with the squad, he is unlikely to feature in the next two games and may only be ready for the Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.
While some might argue Chelsea don’t need another centre-back, Maresca may push for one more addition to ensure stability across a long and grueling season that includes Champions League football.
Newcastle and Liverpool Circle: Transfer Race for Guehi Heats Up
While Chelsea weigh their next move, Newcastle United and Liverpool are quietly circling Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi. Newcastle, in particular, are expected to make a move — especially after their recent defensive injury woes. With Guehi’s contract running down, Palace could be forced to cash in or risk losing him for free next summer.
However, if Chelsea decide to act quickly and decisively, their existing relationship with the player and familiarity with the club’s environment could swing the deal in their favor. Guehi might see a return to Stamford Bridge as a step up — especially with the club back in the Champions League.
Chelsea have proven they’re not afraid to spend big to fix short-term problems. And given Colwill’s absence, it may only be a matter of time before Guehi becomes the center of a high-stakes bidding war.
Chelsea’s Defensive Options: Who Steps Up Now?
Despite the injury to Colwill, Chelsea are not short on defensive talent. New boy Jorrel Hato brings promise from Ajax, and Axel Disasi, Benoît Badiashile, and Trevoh Chalobah have all gained valuable Premier League experience. Tosin Adarabioyo, signed on a free from Fulham, adds a homegrown option with leadership qualities.
Renato Veiga, primarily a midfielder, has shown potential in a more defensive role, while Argentine teenager Aaron Anselmino is one for the future. Meanwhile, Mamadou Sarr has been loaned out to Strasbourg, reducing Chelsea’s immediate youth options.
The challenge for Maresca is to find the right balance, especially in the early stages of the season. A combination of experience and youth will be crucial as the Blues look to maintain momentum from last season’s strong finish.
What’s Next for Chelsea in the Transfer Market?
With just weeks until the new Premier League season kicks off, Chelsea now face a big decision: splash the cash on another defender or trust in the existing squad. The club has been active this summer, already signing Jorrel Hato and adding firepower in other areas. But Colwill’s injury could force them back to the negotiation table.
The transfer window remains open, and fans can expect Chelsea to stay busy — especially if they feel the need to secure a top-four finish again. Whether that involves a big-money move for Guehi, a short-term loan, or a surprise wildcard signing, all eyes will be on Stamford Bridge in the coming days.
For now, Colwill begins his road to recovery, and Chelsea begin life without one of their brightest young defenders — again leaning on the transfer market to fill the gap.
