Chelsea’s defensive line suffered a severe setback towards the closing stages of the 2022-23 Premier League season when their skilled centre back, Benoit Badiashile, sustained a troublesome hamstring injury. This unfortunate occurrence caused him to miss the crucial final three games, leaving incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino grappling with altered plans. 

The Frenchman, who joined Chelsea in January from AS Monaco for a hefty sum of £35 million, had swiftly cemented his position as a regular member of the backline. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive football betting odds from Nextbet. 

His partnership with veteran Thiago Silva bolstered the team’s defensive strength, leading to a mere two losses in 11 Premier League games where Badiashile was on the pitch. Remarkably, within a brief six-month period, he dispelled any doubts about his adaptability to the Premier League and showcased a flourishing performance level.

Regrettably, Badiashile’s hamstring injury disrupted his presence during Chelsea’s pre-season tour to the United States of America, as Pochettino embarked on his first pre-season at the helm. Consequently, the Argentine manager must exercise patience in assessing Badiashile’s abilities and considering how the 22-year-old prodigy fits into his tactical vision.

In the backdrop of this injury, the recent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture suffered by Wesley Fofana further exacerbated Chelsea’s defensive worries. The former Leicester City centre back’s extended absence raises doubts about Pochettino’s preferred centre back pairing for the forthcoming 2023-24 season. 

With Badiashile also ruled out at the season’s start, the team’s central defensive options have narrowed down to Thiago Silva, Trevoh Chalobah, and Levi Colwill. Notably, Malang Sarr, though part of the squad, is likely to be transferred during the summer transfer window.

Despite these challenging circumstances, a glimmer of hope has emerged from Badiashile’s recovery process. Reports from journalist Nathan Gissing indicate that the Frenchman’s recuperation is progressing at an unexpectedly swift pace. As a result, Chelsea has set a target return date of 26th August, which coincides with their match against Luton Town during the third matchday of the Premier League.

Badiashile’s potential early return provides an encouraging sign for both the player and Pochettino. The young centre back’s ball-playing abilities make him an invaluable asset in the buildup phase of Chelsea’s game. Furthermore, his left-footed prowess grants a significant advantage to the team. Delighted by this development, Pochettino eagerly awaits Badiashile’s return to the pitch, where he can continue his upward trajectory and contribute to the Blues’ quest for success in the upcoming Premier League campaign.

The defender’s injury presented a formidable challenge for the team ahead of the new season. However, his expedited recovery and anticipated return signify a positive turn of events for the club and its ambitious manager. With Badiashile’s exceptional skills at their disposal, Chelsea’s defensive line gains a substantial boost, instilling hope and excitement for the upcoming Premier League campaign. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports.