Chelsea Turn to Josh Acheampong Amid Defensive Injury Crisis
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that academy graduate Josh Acheampong will be handed a starting role this week, as the Blues battle a defensive injury crisis.
Injury Setbacks Leave Chelsea Short
The backline has been hit hard: Wesley Fofana is sidelined with a concussion, Tosin Adarabioyo is out with a calf problem, and Benoît Badiashile remains unavailable. With Trevoh Chalobah the only senior centre-back fit, Maresca has turned to Acheampong to fill the void.
Acheampong’s Rise Through the Academy
Born in 2006, Acheampong has been at Chelsea since joining the U8s and made his senior debut in May 2024. His maturity and versatility across the defence have already earned him appearances in multiple competitions, and his progress has caught the manager’s eye.
Maresca’s Backing
Maresca underlined that Acheampong’s opportunity is built on merit, not just necessity. “I already showed trust and confidence in Josh Acheampong last year when he played Premier League games,” he said. “This is not only because of injuries—it’s because he is ready.”
What’s Next
As Chelsea prepare for a demanding run of fixtures, the spotlight will be firmly on Acheampong to bring stability to the defence. With Maresca’s faith and a stage set by injuries, the teenager has a chance to cement himself as a long-term part of the first-team picture.
