Chelsea take on Manchester City at Etihad Stadium on Saturday, February 17, in an exciting game on Matchday 25 of the 2023-24 Premier League. However, fans will probably be surprised not to see Thiago Silva on the pitch.
The Brazilian defender picked up a groin injury during the Blues’ 3-1 win over Crystal Palace on Monday, and couldn’t make it on time for the trip to Manchester.
READ MORE
++ Thiago Silva believes he is more respected in Europe: ‘In Brazil they consider me a crybaby’
++ Chelsea: Thiago Silva’s wife apologizes for controversial social media post linked to Pochettino
++ Mauricio Pochettino reveals Thiago Silva talked to him after his wife made cryptic post
“It’s a minor injury for Thiago but I think he’s out for tomorrow and is not available,” said Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino in a press conference, via the club’s official website. “After this game we don’t know, we will need to assess him day by day.”
Thiago Silva out due to groin injury
Silva, 39, had to be subbed off early in the second half at Selhurst Park, where his teammates went on to secure a 3-1 victory. His return date remains unclear, as the club said he’s undergoing a rehabilitation programme.
Chelsea are currently 10th in the Premier League standings with 34 points, 18 shy of Manchester City, who trail leaders Liverpool by two points but with a game in hand.
🔵⚠️ Pochettino: "Carney Chukwuemeka twisted his ankle two days ago, he's out".
"Thiago Silva also has minor injury, he is not available. We need to assess day by day". pic.twitter.com/BOrgpq2sHx
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 16, 2024
This will be a challenging test for the Blues, who are riding a two-game winning streak across all competitions after struggling for consistency throughout the season.
“I think the lesson is that we are going to face a very, very good team,” Pochettino said. “They are one of the best in the world. But at the same time, you need to be brave and try to force them to defend, to run back, and to their own goal. If we go there and wait to see what is going to happen, they are a team that can dominate and make you suffer.
“The most important thing is we realize the need to attack. After this, we need to be able to run and work together. There are some tactical questions we need to be aware of, but the most important thing is to be brave and challenge them.”
