Chelsea newcomer Essugo has suffered a serious injury: return not before 2026.

Serious injury of Dario Essugo

According to The Sun: Chelsea's new player, Dario Essugo, could miss matches until 2026 due to a serious injury he suffered while playing for the national team.

This midfielder, valued at £18.5 million, had to undergo surgery for a muscle tear in his thigh, which represents a significant setback for the Blues, who had high hopes for the 20-year-old player this season.

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Essugo has already made an impression in three games for the club, but now he will have to spend at least 12 weeks in rehabilitation, and according to initial forecasts, he might not return to the pitch until next year.

The injury occurred during an appearance for Portugal's U-national team. After medical examinations, surgery was performed immediately.

This is an unexpected setback for the player who was brought in to help ease the burden in midfield alongside Moisés Caicedo.

“Unfortunately, I felt something in my thigh during this international break with the national team that will keep me out for a long time. It's frustrating to start the season like this, but I truly believe that everything happens for a reason. I will come back stronger.”

This injury adds to the list of health problems at Chelsea.

Further injuries in the team

Levi Colwill will also miss a large part of the season due to a serious ACL injury he suffered in the preseason games. Forward Liam Delap will not be able to play until at least November due to a ligament injury sustained in the game against Fulham.

Meanwhile, teenage forward David Washington is preparing to participate in the U-20 World Cup with the Brazilian team next month. While transfer windows are still open in countries like Turkey and Greece, Chelsea is currently not planning to loan Washington back.

Essugo, who had just begun his career at Chelsea, is now facing another rehabilitation phase that will impede his development and ability to help the team. Injuries to young players have become a frequent issue for the Blues, who are trying to keep their talents despite the opening of transfers. Essugo's recovery could influence the tactical plans of the coaches and the overall state of the team this season.